A chronic condition, diabetes is a disease that has engulfed a huge population around the world. The illness is grouped as a metabolic disorder that leads to an increase in the levels of blood sugar in the body. Diabetes is triggered when there isn’t enough production of insulin and the sugar in the blood cannot be effectively processed. In some cases, it may also be a result of the inability of the body’s cells to appropriately respond to the produced insulin.

Diabetes is typically kept in control or treated through the injection of insulin into the body. This enables the body to efficiently process the glucose in the blood while maintaining the right levels. In the older times, a traditional insulin injection was employed. However, to make the process easier, diabetes insulin pens have been introduced. Insulin pens are of one the most widely used medical instruments by patients with diabetes. The device allows for efficient injection of an accurate amount of insulin into the body. Here are some factors that will aid in acquiring a better understanding of an insulin pen and its usage.

How do diabetes insulin pens work?

• As the name suggests, a diabetes insulin pen employs the design of a pen. The pen is available in two different forms including disposable and reusable. The former type includes a cartridge that must be used after which the entire pen must be disposed of. On the other hand, the reused insulin pen contains a refillable cartridge that can be repeatedly used by replacing the empty cartridge.
• Insulin pens have to be inserted poked into the skin just like an injection; however, it simplifies the process of measuring and delivering the insulin.
• The dose and the amount of insulin that can be delivered depend upon the type of pen. Typically, most devices can deliver insulin ranging from 0.5 to 80 units at a time.

What are the factors to consider when picking a diabetes insulin pen?
It is pivotal to consider several factors and evaluate the same with the physician before making the right choice. The important things to consider include:

• The brand of the diabetes insulin pen and its type.
• One must ensure that the device can hold enough insulin.
• In case of a reusable insulin pen, the material must be durable.
• The devices should clearly indicate the levels of insulin.
• Also, one must be able to hold the device and adjust the dose of insulin with ease.

How should one use a diabetes insulin pen?
It is essential to follow the right steps when using a diabetes insulin pen. The different types of the device come with varied instructions for usage. One may have to seek advice from the physician before employing an insulin pen. However, here are some general steps that must be followed when using the device.

• When using the pen for the first time, it must be removed out of the refrigerator for few minutes before use.
• One must always check the date of expiry before injecting the insulin.
• The insulin pen must be well-rolled between the arms to ensure that the solution mixes well. The pen must also be gently moved until the insulin is clear.
• It is extremely important to check the expiry date of the cartridge before inserting it into the reusable pen.
• The area chosen for injection must be rubbed with alcohol and allowed to dry.
• The dose must be double checked before administering the same.

How should a diabetes insulin pen be stored?

• An insulin pen must be optimally stored to ensure its best quality. New pens should be kept in the refrigerator. However, a used device can be stored at room temperature, away from excessive heat.
• It is imperative to remove the needle before storing an insulin pen. The attachment, when stored, can affect the sterility of the needle and hamper the administration of the insulin dose.  
• Alternatively, it is important to follow the instructions on the package when storing the device as the instructions vary with the type of pen.

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