subject: Injection Pen: An Easy, Accurate, And Less Painful Drug Delivery Device! [print this page] Injection Pen: An Easy, Accurate, And Less Painful Drug Delivery Device!
Injection pen is a popular method of drug delivery. This is now replacing the traditional syringe usage with lot of drugs available in the form of pre-filled disposable cartridges. These pens are widely used for injecting insulin and are expensive. Also, they eliminate the step of drawing insulin from the vial, which is a major advantage they offer. This is especially useful for kids who suffer from diabetes and fear syringes. It resembles an actual pen in its structure, just that it is larger than that. It consists of a dial, a cartridge, and a tiny needle. Separate disposal pen needles are also required for these pens. These needles are also available in different thickness and length just like a traditional syringe needle.
An injection pen model can be of three types - reusable, one-use, or disposable. Separate insulin cartridges are used in reusable pens which can be disposed after usage. There are pens that now have memory, which means they even keep a record of the previous injections taken by a person. This also helps the person to keep a track of the dosage and the timing of each dosage as well.
Advantages of Using an Injection Pen:
* It is more convenient, safe, and easier to use than a conventional syringe.
* It is used for a more discreet usage and helps in injecting the repeated accurate doses due to its compact size.
* Pens do not require pushing the needle through a rubber vial stopper. The needle tip injects more comfortably while maintaining its lubrication and sharpness. They are less painful than traditional syringes.
* It can be very helpful for the people with motor skill or visual impairment.
In spite of major benefits associated with injection pen, there are some limitations as well. The pen, unlike the traditional syringe, is restricted to half or full unit dosing. Also, many insurance companies do not cover insulin pens in their plans in the Unites States. Although insulin injection pen is quite popular and used all over the world, its usage in the United States is still not widespread.
Using an Insulin Injection Pen
The insulin pens are very easy to use and once trained even children can use them accurately. The needle first needs to be screwed on to the pen and primed. The patient can then choose the required dose with the help of the dial. The dosage is displayed on the pen's window and in many pens can even be heard as clicks. Choosing a good injection site is necessary to ensure comfort during injection. An ideal site for this can be thighs, upper arm, buttocks, and abdominal area. The needle is then inserted under the skin and the injection button on the pen is pressed for injecting insulin in the body. This takes just five seconds. The pen can then be removed and covered which completes the injection process.
Injection pen is a boon especially for diabetes patients. It has given them the flexibility and ease of using them, which has also increased their compliance.
