B12 Injections: Self-Administered Looking For Help

[Dakota15]

Hey PR - had a quick question.

My CFS/ME Specialist has prescribed me Vitamin B12 shots to subcutaneously inject to trial.

As I've never had any experience with self-administering shots to myself, I was wondering if anyone out there has done this before or could point me in the right direction for any videos / literature that's best to follow for a newbie.

Appreciate any help or guidance.

Thank you!

 

[Sushi]

As I've never had any experience with self-administering shots to myself, I was wondering if anyone out there has done this before or could point me in the right direction for any videos / literature that's best to follow for a newbie.

I inject B12 subcutaneously 3 times per week. My doctor's nurse taught me how but I find it very easy to inject it into a pinch of fat in the lower belly. There are a number of YouTube videos showing the technique. Just choose one with a qualified medical professional like a nurse. I find it very important to use the finest needle available (31 gauge) and very short (8 mm or 5/16th inch). You can get them at any pharmacy chain.

As you will see in the videos, you need to use a sterile technique and "stab" the needle in, rather than slowly push it. I find it best to push the plunger very slowly (I inject 1 ml) to avoid any pain. It is against one's natural inclination to "stab oneself" but a quick jab works best. Good luck and I hope you find the B12 painful.

When you look on YouTube you will also see instructions for injecting B12 into the muscle. Don't be confused though as some doctors prefer intramuscular injections.

 

[*GG*]

Just had a Dr appt today and my Dr mentioned doing B12 injections, although we are going to try sublingual 1st, and see how new bloodwork comes back. Injections would be the following step if the sublinguals do not work.

GG

 

[Wonkmonk]

I did several dozen B12 injection. I found intramuscular injection in the femoral muscle or subcutaneous injection into the belly fat most convenient (bioavailability is a bit higher for intramuscular injection).

I followed this video (or a similar one, I don't remember exactly):

But I read or heard elsewhere that rubbing after injection should not be encouraged, so I didn't follow that part.



Overall, I found the procedure quite easy and without much pain.

 

[Gingergrrl]

Good luck and I hope you find the B12 painful.

I know that was a typo and not what you meant to say... but it made me laugh when you said you hoped he found the B12 painful . Feel free to delete this post and I am just easily entertained at the moment

 

[Sushi]

I know that was a typo and not what you meant to say... but it made me laugh when you said you hoped he found the B12 painful . Feel free to delete this post and I am just easily entertained at the moment

That is hilarious! I'll leave it for others to laugh it. I meant helpful!