Insulin must be given into fat. This will help insulin work well. Fat also has fewer nerve endings, so it will not hurt as much.
The 4 main areas on the body that are best to give insulin shots are the:
Abdomen (belly, stomach, tummy). This is where insulin gets absorbed (soaked up) the fastest. You should be able to pinch up at least 1/2 inch of fat. Stay about 1 inch away from the belly button.
Back side of the upper arm halfway between the elbow and the shoulder
Top and outer side of the thigh halfway between the hip and the knee
The buttocks (butt). Use the upper outer part of the hip area.
Do not give yourself insulin in the same spot each time. Use different spots in each area. Giving a shot in the same spot each time causes hard lumps in skin. Insulin will not absorb as well in hard lumps, and blood sugar can go too high.
You could start an insulin routine, such as:
Breakfast shot in the belly (abdomen)
Lunch shot in an arm
Supper shot in a leg
Bedtime shot in the buttocks
The contents of this website are for information purposes only and not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not rely on the information provided for medical decision making and should direct all questions regarding medical matters to their physician or other health care provider. Use of this information does not create an express or implied physician-patient relationship.