Risks of multiple use Reuse of a pen needle can lead to the following risks:

Single use of pen needles

The pen needle is somewhat blunted after single use, the lubricant film can show signs of wear and the tip of the pen needle can be deformed:

  • Injections become more painful.
  • This can lead to small injuries or bruising.

The pen needle is no longer sterile after initial use:

  • Re-use is not hygienic.
  • Increased risk of infections.

Insulin can crystallise in the pen needle:

  • The pen needle may become clogged and a safe insulin injection is therefore no longer guaranteed.
  • This can lead to dosage errors and unexpectedly high blood glucose levels.

Presence or increase in size of air bubbles in the cartridge:

  • Insulin may drip out of pen needle (during storage).
  • Insulin dose becomes inaccurate.
New pen needle

New pen needle

Pen needle after multiple use

Pen needle after multiple use

Pen needle after multiple use with tissue residue attached

Pen needle after multiple use with tissue residue attached