Input about changing fronm U-40 to u-100 needle

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lovey11

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This forum has been helping me find a good dose for my cat who is on Prozinc insulin which came with U- 40 needles. The U- 40 needle has lines only for each whole unit. So you have to estimate 1.25 etc, 1.5 was a little high for my cat and 1.25 might be too low. I guess small units can make a difference?


Do you think a U-10 needle will help with measuring. I will have less estimating to do? I saw a conversion chart on one of the links someone sent me, but I am afraid t could be a misprint or something and I could hurt my cat.

My vet office thinks I am crazy. Do you think I should call my vet about a conversion chart or does someone know the conversions well? :mrgreen:

The conversion chart I have reads:


1 unit of Prozinc equal u-100 LEVEL OF 2.5

1.2 3.0


1.4 3.5


1.6 4.0
 
Yes, Karen, the multiplier is 2.5.
The big benefit, if you get U100 syringes with 1/2 unit markings is that it makes doses much easier to measure accurately.

The best thing to do is to print out this chart and keep it on the fridge or near where you fill the syringes:
http://www.felinediabetes.com/insulin-conversions.htm

When you post how much you give, or when you put it on the spreadsheet, make sure that you use the actual amount (in PZI U40 values).
That way, we'll know that you shot 1.0 unit and not think you gave 2.5u.
You can add a line to your sig that says "using u100 syringes and conversion chart for dosing" or words to that effect.

The U-100 needles come with orange caps on them, and the U40s come with red caps. Make sure if you decide to use the U100s that you take every "red-capped" syringe you have and put them someplace else, or donate them to the vet or something. You NEVER want to use the wrong syringes if you are using the conversion chart.
 
U-100 insulin has 100 units per mL
U-40 insulin has 40 units per mL, or 40 % the concentration.

If you use a U-100 syringe with a U-40 insulin, you multiply the syringe marking by 0.4 to get the dose
so
0.4 * syringe marking = units
0.4 * 0.5 = 0.2 units
0.4 * 1.0 = 0.4 units
0.4 * 0.5 = 0.6 units
0.4 * 2.0 = 0.8 units
0.4 * 2.5 = 1.0 units
0.4 * 3.0 = 1.2 units
0.4 * 3.5 = 1.4 units
etc
 
Thank you both for your input. Do they sell these needles at a drugstore? Are they the same for people and cats?

Right now my U-40 needle is 29 gauge and 1/2 inch.
 
You can buy u-100 needles (orange cap) at any pharmacy (some states require a prescription; others you just ask). U-40 needles (red cap) are only used for veterinary purposes; those you have to get through a vet or pet medical supply place.

Make sure you ask for u-100 needles with half unit marks. These are not standard; check before you buy them because most pharmacies won't take them back.
 
Another question about u -100 needles

My pharmacy had 31 gauge u- 100 needles with 5/16 inch long needles. Are they long enough to do a shot and is the gauge OK? or should I get the same length and gauge that I have been used to online?


My u- 40 were 29 gauge and 1/2 inch needle that I have been using since June.
 
Do they have .5 unit gradients? That's the most important element. Some people like the shorter needles; some don't. The 31 gauge is a little smaller than your old ones - that should be fine.
 
Please double my conversion for U-100 needle

Just want to triple check


I want to give a 1.4 dose of Pro Zinc to my cat.

If I change to a U-100 needle (orange cap), I would draw 3. 5 units.

I have the chart posted.


I have relion insulin syringes for U-100. I called to talk to my vet about my doses and changing needles, but he said it wasn't necessary. He suggested 1.5 and staying on the dose for 2 weeks and check as I go.
 
Re: Please double my conversion for U-100 needle

lovey11 said:
Just want to triple check
I want to give a 1.4 dose of Pro Zinc to my cat.
If I change to a U-100 needle (orange cap), I would draw 3. 5 units.
I have the chart posted.
Click to expand...

Yup.

To crosscheck:
40% concentration * U-100 syringe marking = U-40 dose
0.4 * 3.5 = 1.4
 
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