Can insulin injection be given intramuscular?

Can insulin injection be given intramuscular?

Insulin may be injected into the subcutaneous tissue of the upper arm and the anterior and lateral aspects of the thigh, buttocks, and abdomen (with the exception of a circle with a 2-inch radius around the navel). Intramuscular injection is not recommended for routine injections.

What are the injection sites for insulin?

There are several areas of the body where insulin may be injected:

• The belly, at least 5 cm (2 in.) from the belly button. The belly is the best place to inject insulin.
• The front of the thighs. Insulin usually is absorbed more slowly from this site.
• The back of the upper arms.
• The upper buttocks.

What happens if insulin is given intramuscularly?

The results suggest that in the thigh, accidental intramuscular injections will considerably increase the variability of insulin absorption and may impair glycemic control in insulin-dependent diabetic patients.

What layer of skin is insulin injected into?

Because insulin is broken down by digestive enzymes, it cannot be taken in pill form. Instead, it is delivered with a syringe into the layer of fat below the skin, also called the “subcutaneous” tissue. The layer of fat on the stomach, hips, thighs, buttocks and backs of the arms are common sites for injecting insulin.

Why is insulin given subcutaneously instead of intramuscularly?

The preferred tissue space for insulin injection is the subcutaneous layer, which is the fat layer just below the dermis and above the muscle1; it offers slow, stable and predictable absorption, whatever the fat tissue depth2. Stable and predictable absorption of insulin will support optimal blood glucose control.

Where on the thigh do you inject insulin?

Upper Outer Thigh – The top and outer area of the thigh is the best area to inject insulin. Leave at least 4 inches above the knee & at least 4 inches down from the top of the leg. Avoid injecting into your inner thigh – That region has fewer blood vessels and nerves.

Do you pinch skin when giving insulin?

The insulin needs to go into the fat layer under the skin. Pinch the skin and put the needle in at a 45º angle. If your skin tissues are thicker, you may be able to inject straight up and down (90º angle).

Can you inject insulin above the belly button?

When injecting into the abdomen, you should avoid the belly button because the belly button is tougher and makes insulin absorption less consistent. Instead, inject insulin at least two finger lengths (or two inches) away from the belly button.