Question:
What length needle do you use for B-12 self-injections?

My surgeon gave me a prescription for vitamin B-12 so I could give myself my own injections, as he felt the injections were better and cheaper than sublingual B-12 pills. I had the script filled at the pharmacy and also purchased needles/syringes there. The pharmacist supplied a thin, 5/8" long needle. I gave myself an injection in my thigh yesterday, but I was very surprised at how painless it was. I inserted the entire needle straight into my leg, but felt nothing and I'm wondering if the needle was long enough to hit my muscle? Thanks.    — Sarah S. (posted on January 2, 2003)

January 1, 2003
Sarah - I give myself B12 injections, too - and use the small, insulin-type needles. Check your bottle of B12. My bottle says it can be used either subcutaneously or intramuscularly. My PCP says these little, painless needles do a fine job of subcutaneous B12 delivery. And,I am guessing, here, but maybe as we get smaller, the B12 could get further into the muscle....? -Lori (RNY 06/20/02, 308/217)
   — [Deactivated Member]

January 2, 2003
Just a thought: I have used sub-lingual B12 for over 2 years now and have done just fine. Do what your dr wants, but I wanted you to know my experience.
   — Cara F.

January 2, 2003
I think they're a little short. I have 3ml 25g 1", or the BLUE pkg, if B-D brand. I ordered a big box of 'em, but they came in small needles. I thought, well, close enough, and used them for 6 months. Watched my B12 levels drop like a stone. Oops. I'm sticking with the big needle. Doesn't hurt any more or less than the baby ones.
   — vitalady

January 2, 2003
Hi. You need to use the longer needles to get it in the muscle so the B12 will stay will you and dissapate correctly. I use the B-D 3ml 25G1 Latex Free Syringe. You can double check it with the pharmacist at Walgreens Pharmacy, but this is the correct length to get it in the muscle. Good luck to you.
   — suitfugue

January 6, 2003
If you are giving an intramuscular injection you usually use a 1 to 1.5 inch needle. 5/8 inch needles are usually used with insulin or heparin or any medication used subcutaneously. As always, ask your doctor first.
   — Cindy D