Insulin Syringe Needle Size
Needle size refers to both the length and gauge (thickness) of the needle.
Needle Length
Insulin syringes are available with:
Original needles (1/2") and
Short needles (5/16" or 8mm).
Pen Needles are available in:
1/2" (12.7mm)
5/16" (8mm)
3/16" (5mm) lengths.
The pain that some insulin users feel when they inject depends on their insulin dose, where they inject, the amount of fatty tissue under their skin, and other factors.
Some insulin users prefer short needles because they find them to be more comfortable. However, some people find that the longer, original needle length is more comfortable for them.
If you are overweight, you may not be able to control blood sugar as reliably with short needles. Talk to your doctor or nurse educator to see if short needles are right for you. If you give them a try, you'll need to check your blood sugar regularly to ensure that the short needle isn't affecting your blood glucose control.
Needle Gauge (thickness)
The word 'gauge' rhymes with 'cage' and tells how thick a needle is. Depending on the needle length you choose, you might also have a choice of gauge.
The higher the gauge, the thinner the needle. For example, a 31 gauge needle is thinner than a 28 gauge needle.
Insulin syringes are available in:
28 gauge
29 gauge
30 gauge
31 gauge Short needles.
Pen needles are available in:
29 gauge
31 gauge 5/16"
31 gauge 3/16"
Choosing a Syringe Needle Gauge
Some people prefer 30 or 31 gauge needles because they're thinner. Other people prefer 28 gauge needles because they're less flexible. If you'd like to try a 31 gauge syringe needle, talk to your doctor, because the use of a shorter needle may change your blood sugar control.
If you have questions regarding the many brands and options available, please do not hesitate to contact us. We are always happy to help you discover the easiest and most convenient way to manage your diabetes.
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