Diabetic pens

[Pharmguru]

Are pens the only sort used these days to inject insulin or are there any other methods of injecting still?

Secondly, how much does a pharmacist need to know about how to use these pens/devices.

Patients don't seem to be using the syringes as much these days or am I mistaken

[tinx25388]

I dispense for a few patients that use syringes, but they are in nursing homes.

My manager arranged a team training session with a rep from NovoNordisk - it was very interesting and useful. They covered the different variations on their brand pens (Flexpen, Innolet etc) and how they work, common problems and they had some dummy ones with water in for us to inject into these special pads. Whilst it was biased to their brands, it has been useful and I've been able to deal with several queries that I wouldnt have been able to before.

[johnep]

We used to have regular Branch meetings where the local rep, sometimes assisted by a nurse would present on insulins, COPD, or dressings. all areas difficult to know about. The rep would usually pay for refreshments and sometimes room hire as well. All very instructive and a Cert of attendance for CPD.
johnep