Insulin pens are a convenient and user-friendly method for administering insulin injections to manage diabetes. They are prefilled with insulin cartridges and provide accurate dosing, making them popular among people with diabetes who require insulin therapy. Here's a detailed guide on using insulin pens and understanding the optimal injection sites and insulin action profiles:
Using insulin pens:
- Preparing the Pen: Unscrew the cap, attach a new needle, prime the pen by dialing the dose selector to 2 units and pressing the plunger until a drop of insulin appears at the tip of the needle.
- Setting the Dose: Rotate the dose selector to the prescribed amount as advised by your healthcare professional.
- Injection Procedure: Choose the right injection site, clean the area with an alcohol swab (avoid using iodine-based solutions as they can denature insulin), pinch a fold of skin (except for the buttocks), insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, push the button to deliver insulin, and hold for 10 seconds before withdrawing the needle.
- Site Rotation: Rotate injection sites within an area to avoid lipohypertrophy (thickened fatty tissue) that can affect insulin absorption.
Insulin Injection Sites & Absorption Rates:
- Abdomen: The abdomen offers the fastest insulin absorption rate (around 100%), making it ideal for short-acting and ultra-short-acting insulin injections. Administer in areas at least 2 inches away from the belly button.
- Outside of Upper Arm: With an absorption rate of approximately 85%, this site is another option, though slightly slower than the abdomen.
- Outer Thigh: The outer thigh absorbs insulin at about 70% efficiency. Pinch the skin to ensure subcutaneous injection, especially for medium and long-acting insulin.
- Buttocks (outer and upper sides): This area absorbs insulin the slowest and doesn't require pinching the skin. It is best suited for medium and long-acting insulin, as a slower absorption rate allows for steady insulin action throughout the day or night.
Insulin Action Profiles:
- Short-Acting Insulin: Takes effect approximately 30 minutes post-injection, peaks between 2 to 3 hours, and lasts for about 6 to 8 hours. Administer it half an hour before meals to cover the rise in blood sugar from food intake.
- Rapid-Acting Insulin: Begins working within 5 to 10 minutes post-injection, hits peak effectiveness within 1 to 2 hours, and maintains its effect for around 4 to 5 hours. Administer this type of insulin closer to mealtime or immediately after, depending on your healthcare provider's instructions.
Always consult your healthcare team for personalized advice on insulin administration, dosing, and timing, as these may vary depending on your specific needs and circumstances.