Novolog Pen3 Question

[howdysf]

Guys,

Do those of you using the Novopen 3 feel that you're getting the same dosage as you do the conventional syringes? I kind of feel like 1 unit in the Novopen is less than 1 unit in the regular syringe.. I've been running high for pretty much no reason... the only thing I can think of is I recently went back to using the novopen.... hmmm... also, I alway squeeze one unit out before using it and only a little drop comes out.. it may be the same amount, but it looks like less than a syringe...

I'm pretty convinced that my pen is working properly, so that's not the reason.. I just think the unit measurements may be different..

Any thoughts/experience from Novopen 3 users?

[Blakez0rz]

yeah, i use novolog flexpen and i notice that when i use it my BG is different then when i use serynges. i also notice that the difference between one unit and two is huge.

[howdysf]

Do you notice your BG is higher?.. Do you compensate and bolus differently when you're using the pen vs. syringes?.. any clues to the mystery are appreciated..

[BlueSky]

howdysf,

I haven't found a difference. But there could be an issue with your pen, although it is unlikely. There is a way to test it for yourself. Using the pen, squirt 20 units of insulin into the conical plastic cap pen needles are packaged in. Note the level and and empty the insulin out. Then draw up 20 units of insulin (or water) into a syringe and squirt it into the same cap. It should come up to the same level.

If you find that syringes and your pen deliver similar amounts, you will have to think again about what could be causing the highs. Are you priming your pen before each use? I have never had a problem with Humalog pens, but I have had one with a Novopen. I have two Novopen Demis at the moment, one of which needs to be primed, while the other doesn't. The one I am having a problem with seems to play up after going for a ride in the car, of all things. I don't know if it is the vibrations that do it, but I have had to prime up to 15 units. And it is a new pen....

Anyway, good luck with getting to the bottom of the problem.;)

[BriOnH]

I use a novo 4 and it is precise. I tried the demi, and while it is precise too, the mechanics of <4 are clumsy in comparison to the 4. Canada is the only place I know of to buy them.

Test it periodically by taking a syringe, pulling out the plunger and use it as a measuring flask.

[howdysf]

Thanks guys.. Brian, good idea on measuring w/ syringe.. gonna try it.

thanks