SC injections

[jonlyme]

I want to start self injecting and was thinking about SC injections as I think I could cope with that but not at all sure about IM. There seems to be differing views on this and I wondered if there is anyone who could advise. Thanks

[wedgewood]

B12 ampoules are suitable for Sub-cut injections as also is I.M. It states so on the B12 ampoule packaging . Members on this forum have commented favourably on sub-cut .Doctors always used I.M. It has been said that I.M. injections react more quickly, but I don’t know it this is just hearsay , or if there is any scientific evidence . I actually use I.M. , so I can’t really give you personal information.

[Gambit62 Administrator]

Personally I use SC.

As far as I am aware studies don't actually indicate much difference between SC and IM - IM gets into blood stream a bit quicker but the difference doesn't strike me as being particularly materials.

[Nackapan]

I'm having IM at the surgery but like you am going to start self injecting. I'm waiting for the needles ect to arrive. I'm going to try subcutaneous at home.

[fbirder]

There is little difference between the two routes as to how quickly it is absorbed. The FDA says -

"Vitamin B12 is quantitatively and rapidly absorbed from intramuscular and subcutaneous sites of injection."

accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatf...

[Auntya]

I do SC, find it easier than IM & found no difference although I don’t always SC the full 1ml & tend to do 1/2 as it can be a little uncomfortable. I use fixed insulin needle & syringe but wish I could find shorter subcut needles like they have on insulin pens! (anyone know?)

[jonlyme in reply to Auntya]

do you think it would be possible to use refillable insulin pen

[Auntya in reply to jonlyme]

I didn’t know they had these!

[jonlyme]

apparently so but don’t know if they can be used for B12

[fbirder in reply to jonlyme]

I believe that they use special cartridges.