self injections

[mandywhiteland]

I have taken the step in getting my own injections, as my doctor will only give me 4 a year, I have seen the you tube on how to inject, and it looks scary as a first step. How often should I inject, and is it possible to over do it?

[wedgewood]

It’s really a matter of trying to find the right frequency of injections that will keep you free of symptoms. Have you not noticed when your symptoms start returning when you are on the usual 3 monthly protocol? If they start returning after 4 weeks , inject at three weeks etc .You cannot overdose . Any unused B12 will be excreted in your urine . Some doctors will tell you that it can be toxic !!! But that is not true . There are medical papers that you can download that will explain that you cannot overdose on B12 .

Yes , it does sound scary at first . I know I was scared to death ! But you need to use a fine injection needle at least 25 gauge ( the higher the gauge , the finer the needle.) 1inch long is sufficient for most people . I assume that you will be injecting into alternate thighs .

You withdraw the liquid with a long 1 1/2 inch needle .

I’ve been using S.I. for nearly 3 years and it has changed my life . It’s a doddle now and it will be for you as well . Don’t forget to take a daily folic acid pill as well . Very best wishes to you .

[deniseinmilden in reply to wedgewood]

Doing your jabs is nowhere near as scary as the thought of it and nowadays I have to do them as soon as I get up because otherwise I'd be likely to forget - even though my memory is OK now - just because they are no big deal.

This is an excellent reply about injecting as are others from Wedgwood. I suggest that you go to her profile by double clicking on her name and read through her other replies to posts about injections. You may find other replies from Foggyme and others that are really helpful too.

I also suggest that you take a broad spectrum multivitamin and mineral supplement plus extra folate. You will probably benefit from a diet rich in potassium, magnesium and iron - Google these to see what foods you like.

Good luck with getting your life back and being in control of your own destiny.

[JMN2017]

On the off chance that you happen to be allergic to something in the liquid you inject, there is a slight risk of requiring urgent medical attention.

So, may I suggest having someone who won't mess around and will get you to A/E as soon as...., if required to.

I self-inject. I now inject sub-cutaneously which I find much easier and use a smaller needle Bring the liquid in the ampoule up to body temperature before injection so it stings less (not everyone has the stinging, though, as far as I know) Maybe just keep the ampoule tight in your armpit, for instance, to warm it slightly

Good luck

[wedgewood]

As you have already had B12 injections , I don’t think that you need worry about having a bad reaction when you S.I.

[spacey1]

As others have said, you can't overdose on B12. Experiment to see what frequency works for you; try to aim for just before you would start getting symptoms again. If you can't be that precise (I can't, my need for B12 varies with what I've been up to, whether I'm stressed, etc), then inject when you feel the most minor of symptoms creeping in. I notice when my eyelids twitch, or I get a sensation like I've got water in my ears - not really unpleasant symptoms, but they do warn me that I need to top up. The symptoms go for me within an hour or two of injecting.

Don't be scared of injecting! The first one is soooooooo scary, but actually they're easy-peasy. You'll be absolutely fine, and it's so nice to feel you're taking control of your health

[Gb57]

I inject in my thigh. I sqeeze the muscle and inject. It hurts a little but it's over in seconds. if you find it difficult ask a friend or member of your family to do it for you. You will get used to self injecting soon. Hope all goes ok for you