Posted by Velinda on October 29, 2001 at 09:39:01:
In Reply to: Re: ADA Updates Position on Needle Reuse posted by Ellen on October 28, 2001 at 16:38:53:
It's not really a suprize that we are being told to consume more needles. The more money we spend, the more we are supporting the drug businesses.
I re-use my needles for days at a time. I start a new needle about once every 2 or 3 days (8 to 15 injections). I change my lancets about once every 2 or 3 weeks.
The number of times I reuse my supplies multiplies exponentially once I am travelling. Consider the logistics of carrying 11 months worth of syringes at 4 or 5 used per day (same with lancets). I've personally never had a problem with re-used syringes and have even used ones with bent needles when no others were in my purse. I inject right through clothing as well.
I did, however, have problems with the pen delivering the correct dose. I used an insulin pen for about 5 months a few years ago. The air DOES build up inside the cartridge and it was my personal experience that I often received less of a dose than I had “dialed up”. The third time my BG went over 18, I went back to needles.
It's not about money, it's about practicality. How many supplies one can usefully carry at a time? A monitor, dextrose/glucose supplies, vials of insulin, and syringes. Yeesh! And how often do any of us want to "restock" our purses, briefcases, etc.?