Self injecting and GP

[Callum4878]

Hi all, I’m close to the end of first three monthly period between GP injections, and I have self injected three times in this period, so I’m guessing monthly might suit me.

Just wondered, has anyone told their GP they were self injecting, and what was their reaction?

Also I’m hoping to persuade them to increase the frequency of injections, so I’m not injecting now, when I feel I need one, as I believe a blood test is done at three months. I’m not too optimistic about this, but any advice would be helpful please.

Thanks

Callum

[waveylines]

I self inject daily with my GPs knowledge & permission. They provide the vials on prescription, the needles & syringes they source from their local hospital for me. I find subcut injections very effective. The only problem is that there hasnt been any research on this method am told and subcut is not a recognised treatment of b12 on the nhs. However my GP Surgery is delighted as the costs are so minimal this way as it saves the cost of a nurse to do it....so they are very happy with this arrangement.

It took a while to set this up as they insisted I saw a neurologist first so I told them I would self fund/inject until i saw the consultant.

I always tell my GP what I am doing so its on my medical notes incase of accident or op or further medication that needs to be prescribed.

Good luck!

[Nackapan]

You dont need a blood test. They may then offer fewer not more!

Keep a log of your symptoms. Start with getting 2 monthy perhaps as is in the guidelines ??

I think it's best it's on your notes but not all doctors goid about si .

So being on the cautious side I would start by asking for more first. As long as so.eone knows you are Si.

I used to trust the NHS having worked in it but have grown more cautious with the restrictions they are under. The ignorance of PA. And treatment.

I have managed to get 2 weekly at present at the surgery.

I kept pushing I kept goi g back . I wrote down everything.

I also wrote for a referral as I felt this coudnt be ignored or brushed off verbally.

My Gp read the bnf guidelines online in the consultation.

The neurologist said ti treat as per guidelines. At that point I was put back on every other day.

Good luck not that it should be down to that!!

[JanD236]

My GP is relatively good and allows me a monthly prescription. It was a problem getting nurse appointments that fitted around work so I asked if I could self inject. He said yes but that there are legal complications for him prescribing IM needles and syringes so after the handful he gave me from his supplies said I’d have to source my own.

I now si twice a week but haven’t the courage to let my (new) GP know this in case it upsets the monthly vial I’m prescribed.

[Callum4878]

Thanks to all for the replies, guess I’ll try for monthly, if they stick to their guideline of 2 monthly, I can SI between the months.

Thanks to all for the advice,

Callum

KBO