Diabetic Needles
Diabetic needles are a need for many patients who must inject liquid insulin on a daily basis in order to keep their insulin under control. Most of these needles may be purchased from different places, and may be used to better accommodate preference, patient shape and size, as well as insulin dosage. This article will talk about where to find good deals on diabetic needles, the importance of buying the correct size, and how to dispose of used needles properly:
Where to find Cheap Diabetic Needles
Diabetic needles are widely available at big box retail stores, pharmacies, online, from catalogues and more. If you are in need of cheap diabetic needles, your best bet may be to purchase them at big box retail stores, as the pharmacies of these stores may often have the cheapest prices on diabetic supplies. Other options may include asking your doctor or local hospital, as some doctors may be able to provide free samples to their customers. Some hospitals may have programs in place to help patients who need them get the diabetic supplies they need. You may also be able to inquire directly with the manufacturer of diabetic needles, as they may also have similar programs.
Buy the Correct Size
No matter where you buy your diabetic needles, it is very important that you always buy the correct size. Sizes of needles are determined by your typical dosage of insulin and what type of insulin you have been prescribed. Be sure to match up your insulin syringe with the appropriate insulin type. You also want to select the smallest syringe that will let you take your dosage of insulin in one injection, as this better helps you to measure each dose. Often, syringes come outfitted with needles of different lengths and gauges. Select the appropriate length, as recommended by your doctor, and the appropriate gauge (thickness) based upon how you will inject the insulin, your pain tolerance (some say thinner needles are less painful), and your skin type.
Dispose of Properly
Disposing of used diabetic needles properly is very important. This helps to keep the environment, as well as others, healthy, safe, and clean. It will also help to prevent anyone from getting pricked by used needles. First, contact your local health department to learn more about the laws and rules about disposing of needles in your area, as they vary by location. Then, ask your doctor or local pharmacist if programs are available in your area that has been designated as a safe disposal area. If there is no program like this in your area, you may be able to find an at-home needle destruction device that you can purchase, or may be able to participate in a mail-in program to help you safely dispose of your used diabetic needles. No matter how you dispose of them, remember that after injection, you should place your used syringe in a strong plastic container with a lid that is out of reach of pets or children.