Injection Site

[dekockc]

Just a question to all the experts out there. My son(aged 7) has type 1, and the doctor just changed his insulin to Levemir. It says in the info sheet that it should only be injected into the abdomen, thigh or upper arms. My son is very thin and has no fat deposits in these areas and therefore finds it very painful if I inject him there (even if I pinch a fold of skin). The only place where he tolerates it well, is on the back hip area (sort of upper buttock). If I keep on injecting the Levemir there, will it really be much less effective? Does anyone have experience with this? Any help will be appreciated. Thanks.

[Geoff]

Hi dekockc, The best places to inject insulin are (in order)
1: Buttocts (seat) slowest absorbing
2: abdomen (holding pinch of fat)
3: arms (holdind pinch of fat)
4: thighs (holding pinch of fat)

Theses are the sights with the most subcutancous fat (listed in order) You can use any two of theses sites with out problems as long as you rotate them.

[Ailsa]

I think it's fine to inject there. I use that spot a fair bit.
Are you using the shortest possible needles? That makes a difference, although I'm sure it is a problem with kids. If it's hurting or bruising he's going too deep, so you could try a slight angle ( a bit like you would hold a pencil on) & that should help.

[dekockc]

Thanks - I will try the advice. I am using the shortest and thinnest needles. Will try to put more of an angle to it as well.

[Tc99]

Actually, use BD Ultra Fine 3 Pen needes or if not they have the same "caliber" reguler needles. These are great, because they go under the skin without you having to pinch it. It is very short needle and is extremely effective !!