Auto-Injectors, Pens + Pre-filled Syringes Flashcards
Why these devices?
Improved safety
Improved dosing accuracy
Patient compliance
What are the different types?
Vial
Cartridge
Disposable pen
What are the different classifications?
Single use
Disposable = used until empty
Reusable = new drug can be loaded into container
What is a vial?
Closed vessel containing insulin, which is sealed with pressurised seal
What are the positives of a vial?
Can use for multiple patients
Larger size
Good in secondary care/healthcare/nursing home
Can be used to fill insulin pumps
What are the negatives of a vial?
Require syringe to give dose
Measuring dose potentially more difficult as syringe needed
Not all insulins available in a vial
What is a cartridge?
Disposable container of insulin which is inserted into non-disposable pen device
What are the positives of a cartridge?
Used in non-disposable pen = preferrable
Easy to dial up dose
What are the negatives of a cartridge?
May not be preferrable = non-disposable pen
Pen breaks = no alternative to give insulin
Not all insulins available as cartridge
What is a pre-filled pen?
Disposable container of insulin in a pen, which is fully enclosed + disposed of when finished
What are the positives of a pre-filled pen?
Breaks can easily replace
Easy to dial up dose
Can be recycled
What are the negatives of pre-filled pen?
Differences between disposable pens
Not all insulins available in pre-filled pens
What is an insulin pump?
Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion
What are the positives of an insulin pump?
Mirrors body + natural pancreatic function
Can be used as closed loop with monitoring devices
Only need one type of insulin
Deliver basal + bolus doses
Different types of pumps available for patient need
What are the negatives of an insulin pump?
Requires high level of patient input
Need good dexterity to fill + use
Pump fails = DKA develop fast
Higher risk of DKA
