Self injection advice

[Bekg2k]

Hi guys so it looks like I might have to start self injecting b12 as my gp has informed me today that they will most likely be stopping my injections due to my last bloods showing my levels are higher now. I will be fighting them about it and haven't given up but want to be prepared and know what I need if I have to SI. I am really squeamish about needles so was wondering if anyone has had any success with any auto injecting pens? If not can people advise exactly what they use ie needle types/gauges etc. I think I know what b12 stuff I need but any examples of what other people use would be really helpful! Thanks in advance x

[Bekg2k]

I know theres been lots of similar posts but my head is really not great at the moment and I'm struggling to collate it all x

[wedgewood]

Necessary equipment for self-injecting B12 , and sources for UK patients.

ALWAYS WASH YOUR HANDS THOROUGHLY BEFORE STARTING THE PROCEDURE

Packets of Hydroxocobalamin ampoules 1mg x 1ml Rotexmedica B12 depot Obtainable in packets of 10

or 100 ampoules (10 x 10 ) usually at a discount .

Do not forget to ask for Depot , as this indicates that it’s b12 Hydroxocobalamin. Otherwise you could accidentally order Cynocobalamin. which is not generally used in the U.K.

obtainable at the following German online pharmacies —-

versandapo.de ( In German , so you may need a translation app , or use google chrome )

bodfeld-apotheke.de ( you can choose your language on the top right of the site )

The above German pharmacies charge € 9.98 for courier , no matter how many packets you order

amazon,de ( German Amazon ) You can get this site in English You need to trawl through the site and find the pharmacies offering the ampoules that will ship to U.K.

Needles — I use 2 needles , one to extract the liquid from the ampoule , and another to inject .

I use a long coarse needle— 21 G x 1 1/2 “ for extracting, and a finer needle — 25G x 1” for the actual injection . I use the I.M. method ( Intra-Muscular) into the middle outer third of my thigh , where the muscle is nearest to the surface . I use 2 needles because in extracting the B12 the needle will need to touch the bottom of the ampoule , making the needle blunt (ouch!)

I use a 2ml syringe because it is easier to extract every precious drop of B12 by pulling out the syringe plunger and then expelling the air into the b12 . When you then extract the liquid you will obtain every last drop. I then use the finer needle to inject , expelling any air in the syringe , until a droplet appears on the end of the injection needle .

I do use a swab to disinfect the injection spot , but many people say it’s not necessary . I use the same swab placed over the ampoule , and break it at its weakest point , which is indicated by a white spot in the neck . If you are nervous about doing this , there are devices obtainable on amazon.uk ( search for” ampoule opener “)

I’m afraid I don’t know anything about the sub- cutaneous method of injecting .

You will also need a sharps box for your spent needles . Many chemists will accept these free of charge , for disposal.

If you are needle phobic , I have heard of a Danish device that is apparently very useful . Obtainable from unionmedico.com — cost around £100.00 I have not used it , but I’ve heard good reports .

Needles etc can be obtained from medisave.co.uk

You can also find many videos on Utube of self injecting . Some are poor , some are useful .

Hope that this information is useful for you . Best wishes .

[th3joker]

I use subcutaneous method with 1ml insulin all in 1 needles from medisave. Pinch some flesh/fat about an inch to the left or right of your navel. Push the needle all the way in, I find using one swift movement is least painful. Inject slowly, leave needle in for a few seconds then remove.

Intramuscular hurts more and makes me a little more queasy for the first 24hrs.