Needle phobia - is the pen-type delivery system easier?

Wonkylegs

HI

just wondering if any of you who have a big needle problem have succeeded better with the pen delivery system rather than the self-injecting?

I used to self-inject the MTX, but after two years couldn't manage it (I think being able to see the needle is the problem for me) so have been getting it done by the practice nurse.

I have just done a thread about my rheumy nurse appt & one of the choices is to go onto one of the biological treatments.

She has asked me to think about it - but I would have to self-inject with a pen device rather than a needle, or opt for the hospital-given infusion.

anyone had this choice to make & is the pen really easier?

thanks

scattered

You can't see the needle with the pen injections. It's completely covered by a plastic covering. You don't even see the needle enter or leave your skin.

I take Humira which is really easy to inject. Nothing like doing your own MTX injections (I do those too!). You just press the top of the pin and it does the rest.

Going onto a biologic was one of the best things I've ever done with regard to my RA. I achieved a clinical remission for 6 months which was incomprehensible before I started them. If you can get over (I know it's not easy) the needle part then they are worth it.

Wonkylegs

scattered wrote:

You can't see the needle with the pen injections. It's completely covered by a plastic covering. You don't even see the needle enter or leave your skin.

I take Humira which is really easy to inject. Nothing like doing your own MTX injections (I do those too!). You just press the top of the pin and it does the rest.

Going onto a biologic was one of the best things I've ever done with regard to my RA. I achieved a clinical remission for 6 months which was incomprehensible before I started them. If you can get over (I know it's not easy) the needle part then they are worth it.

thanks - that's really good to know.

I really felt stupid having managed for so long and then falling apart again .... but I do enjoy having the contact with the nurse every week when she does my jab.... so it's swings and roundabouts really

I'll give it some more thought. Got to tell hubby tonight - I knwo what he'll say ....... he dreaded injection day more than me as he had to try and encourage me

Wonkylegs

pixyandfaries wrote:

doc said " oh yes it dose sting a bit "!!! :roll: :x

they do that :roll: :x :x :x :x :x

my MTX sometimes stings and sometimes doesn't - that's not my main issues though .... it's looking at the needle and knowing I have to push it into ME :shock: :shock: :shock: :shock: eugh .... no more needle talk for me tonight

Wonkylegs

Bumping this up a bit - Just wondering if anyone else who injects is around this weekend to give their thoughts.