Insulin Pens with insulin cartridges

[mum2westiesGill]

For QA / Bolus - I use the Humapen Luxura which goes up in 1 units - this is the one
https://www.mylillypen.com/luxura.aspx

For BI / Basal - I use the Autopen 24, the blue one which goes up in 2 units - it's the 2nd one down
http://www.owenmumford.com/en/range/6/autopen.html

Please can anyone tell me
1. what would happen with either of these pens if the device wasn't delivering correctly
and
2. how often do you think you should start using a new one

Thanks in advance for any replies 🙂

 

[Robster65]

Hi Gill.

I use the luxura and used to use the Autopen24 (now use disposable Solostar for lantus).

You can test the delivery by shooting a couple of units prior to each jab as an air shot, or the needle cap apparently measures the dose somehow, but I've never been shown this so can't advise.

Each pen is designed to last for several years. I had my autopen for a fair while and only changed for the single unit increments.

The luxura is pretty robust and should last a good many years.

If ever you're in doubt, see your DSN/GP and they'll either test it for you or just replace it. 🙂

Rob

 

[Austin Mini]

I use the Lilly Luxura and have been doing so for six years now. They are very well made and I have never had a problem with both of them.
Q1, I dont know how you would check their accuracy. I always attach a new needle and air shot one unit to prime the needle. If you get a lot of Hypos then it would suggest it is over delivering. Too many High readings could mean under delivering.
Q2, Looking at mine there does not seem to be any wear on it whatsoever. I expect it to easily last another six/seven years or until I am forced to have a new one by DSN.

 

[MaryPlain]

I was told that the pencap holds 20 units.

 

[Austin Mini]

The pen cap covers the whole cartridge.

 

[MaryPlain]

I was told that the pencap holds 20 units.

Sorry, I meant the needle cap!

 

[Austin Mini]

Heres what I am going to do. When this cartridge is finished I will fill with water and check just how much a needle cap will hold. Being retired I have all day to play now!

 

[everydayupsanddowns]

Gill

If you are on fairly modest doses of Lantus (up to 32u I think) I'd suggest getting a green Autopen. It's still pretty nasty-feeling, but does go up in 1u increments.

The main problem I had with Autopens was the writing wearing off. I'm not sure if they suggest a lifespan in the PIL in the box, but they should last a good few years I'd have thought.

And I've also heard about the cap check - prime the needle, then place on the outer translucent needle cover. Dial up 20u and hold the pen needle down. 20u should completely fill the thin end section.

 

[Tina63]

And I've also heard about the cap check - prime the needle, then place on the outer translucent needle cover. Dial up 20u and hold the pen needle down. 20u should completely fill the thin end section.

Surely an 8mm needle cap would hold significantly more than a 4mm needle cap? Or are the outer caps the same size? I am presuming the longer the needle, the longer the cover. I will have to have a look sometime. We have 3 different needle sizes amongst our clobber, but my son has only ever used the 4mm.