Journal of diabetes science and technology
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J Diabetes Sci Technol · Mar 2012
Randomized Controlled Trial Multicenter Study Comparative StudyImpact of a modified needle tip geometry on penetration force as well as acceptability, preference, and perceived pain in subjects with diabetes.
Multiple factors impact subcutaneous insulin injection pain. Injection devices [e.g., syringe or pen needle (PN)] affect pain due to needle length, diameter, needle polishing and lubrication, and needle tip geometry. ⋯ Needle tip geometry affects penetration force. When blinded, patients did not distinguish differences in PN tip geometry with fine-gauge PN insertions. A 5-bevel needle tip is perceived as less painful and is preferred by subjects following home use for usual injections. Similar results occurred when patients were informed that they were using a needle with a modified tip.