Can I use a U-100 syringe for U-40 insulin?

[SuziB]

I am having a terrible time giving my cat injections. It’s been suggested that I use a smaller needle. I’m currently using a U-40 1/2” 28G syringe that I bought from my vet. The only smaller U-40 syringes I find are 29G, but U-100 syringes come in a 5/16” 31G, which is considerably smaller. Is it ok to use the smaller needle/syringe if I adjust the dosage? My understanding is that I would multiply the unit dose she’s getting by 2.5. She currently gets 1U, which would mean I would fill the U-100 syringe to the 2.5 mark. Is that correct?

 

[Sandi and Toby]

It's too late/early for me to attempt any kind of math but I can go ahead and get this link to you:

http://www.felinediabetes.com/insulin-conversions.htm

 

[Becki and sox]

She currently gets 1U, which would mean I would fill the U-100 syringe to the 2.5 mark. Is that correct?

Yeah that's right I used the u100 with my prozinc insulin. They were so much better for fine adjustments to the dose.

 

[Kris & Teasel]

Yes, you can do this. It's a great way to measure small dose fractions too. Print out the chart in the link you were given in post #2 above and put the U40 syringes away somewhere so you don't accidentally use one of those with the chart.

 

[flyingduster]

Yep, I’m using U100 syringes with my U40 insulin at the moment! Just use the conversion chart to be sure.

 

[SuziB]

Thanks! Got the syringes locally today. Fingers crossed tonight’s injection goes better than the last few!!