Can I fill a 1ml syringe with a fixed 8mm needle?

[Schenks]

I know this sounds thick, but if I manage to buy ampoules of B12, can I fill them using a fixed insulin syringe with an 8mm hypodermic? And can anyone direct me to a video on how do do it all for subcutaneous injections, please? The only videos i can find on youtube are all (scream) intramuscular.

thanks.

[Gambit62 Administrator]

Yes, is possible.

You will probably need to invert the phial to get to the B12 solution but this isn't a problem as the phials are designed so surface tension stops them leaking when they are held upside down. Try to avoid touching the glass with the tip of the needle though as this can blunt the needle and may mean that it is a little difficult (and painful) to get it through the skin.

[Schenks in reply to Gambit62]

Oh good grief! Thank you so much for your advice and support. I will now avoid touching the glass at all costs - I truly am a wuss!

[Schenks in reply to Gambit62]

Been brave enough to just now buy the needles, alcohol wipes and sharp bins. Whilst I'm on a roll I'm going to try for the B12! Thanks Gambit.

[Hillwoman]

I haven't tried Gambit's tip, but there's no reason why it shouldn't work. When I'm using ampoules, as opposed to a multi-dose vial, I prefer to use a syringe with separate needles: a long one to draw up, and a short one to inject. My preference is down to my shaky hands - thanks to the PA!

[Schenks in reply to Hillwoman]

I won't cope with needles and shmeedles at this stage! I've got one shot to get it right or i'll faint, wee, cry, tremble and be an all-round twerp!

[Hillwoman in reply to Schenks]

Oops, sorry about the delay... If it's any comfort, I had a whole fortnight of mini meltdowns when first learning to inject. I think crying, trembling and wet pants are quite normal during the L-plate stage.

[Schenks in reply to Hillwoman]

Sh*t. this sounds like a two Tena Lady job!