Insulin Pen - Convenient Diabetes Treatment Device | UK Encyclopedia

An insulin pen is a medical device used to inject insulin for the treatment of diabetes. It consists of a cartridge, a dial to measure the dose, and a needle for injection.

Insulin Pen FAQ

Image credit: diabetes.co.uk

What is an insulin pen?

An insulin pen is an injection device that you can use to deliver preloaded insulin into your subcutaneous tissue — the innermost layer of skin in your body. These pens are one form of insulin therapy for people with diabetes. They’re a type of multiple daily injection (MDI). An insulin pen looks like a writing pen.

Do people with diabetes use insulin pens?

People with diabetes use insulin pens to inject insulin, a vital hormone for people who have diabetes. They contain a cartridge, a dial to measure dosage, and a disposable needle. Insulin pens are growing in popularity, and many people with diabetes nowadays use a pen to administer insulin.

Are there different types of insulin pens?

There are many types of insulin pens. Some contain different features, while others are allocated for specific insulin types. Insulin pens vary in price, type of insulin, and dosing. Your insurance may have a specific insulin pen that they have on their formulary (list of preferred prescription drugs).

What are smart insulin pens?

Recently, smart insulin pens, or connected pens, which are connected to an intuitive app, have also become available to people with diabetes. To administer an insulin injection, pen needles must be attached to the tip of the pen. There are various types of pen needles, which range in length and thickness.

What are the different types of insulin pens?

Most fall into two distinct categories: disposable and reusable. A disposable pen: This contains a prefilled insulin cartridge. Once used, the entire pen unit is thrown away. A reusable pen: This contains a replaceable insulin cartridge. Once empty, a person discards the cartridge and installs a new one.

Are insulin pens disposable or reusable?

Insulin pens are mostly disposable or reusable. Different brands and models of insulin pen are available. Most fall into two distinct categories: disposable and reusable. A disposable pen: This contains a prefilled insulin cartridge. Once used, the entire pen unit is thrown away. A reusable pen: This contains a replaceable insulin cartridge.

Can you inject insulin using an insulin pen?

You can inject insulin using an insulin pen. This is a device that helps you inject safely and take the right dose. Using an insulin pen does not usually hurt. The needles are very small, as you only inject a small amount just under your skin. Your diabetes nurse will show you where to inject and how to use your pen.