Do I need half unit markings?

[Skunky's Mom]

Hi all. We are starting Lantus tommorrow or Saturday. A friend just sent me a big bag of syringes. They are 100u but they don't have half unit markings. I plan on starting at half a unit (because I don't know what else to do)

Is it ok to estimate or should I go buy some 1/2 unit ones and use the 1 unit ones after the 1/2 units ones are all used up and I'm much better at this whole thing?

 

[Lisa and Witn (GA)]

Generally we use the 30 unit syringes because it is easier to get an accurate dose. If these were 30U syringes, then yes you could use them without 1/2 unit markings because you still can estimate the dose. Since the marks are so close on a 100 unit syringe, it will be very hard to get an accurate dose. These syringes are better for human diabetics since their doses are much higher than what your cat would need.

 

[Skunky's Mom]

I guess I have my terminology wrong.

Yes, they are 30 unit aka 3/10CC syringes, for U100 insulin.

So but I think you're saying it is OK to guesstimate. I'm going to try drawing up some water and playing around.

 

[BJM]

One thing you can do is practice getting the same number of the same/similar sized drops out of the 1 unit. That will help you estimate 0.5 units by discharging what you don't need into a sink until you are able to 'see' it on the syringe.