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        Cluster Headache Help and Support >> Medications, Treatments, Therapies >> Imitrex Vial Use Questions
        
(Message started by: av8r3400 on Feb 29^th, 2008, 10:54am)

Title: Imitrex Vial Use Questions
Post by av8r3400 on Feb 29^th, 2008, 10:54am

Title: Re: Imitrex Vial Use Questions
Post by Ray on Mar 1^st, 2008, 1:08am

on 02/29/08 at 10:54:18, av8r3400 wrote:

I have a couple of questions for all who are using Imitrex Vials instead of the Stat-Dose Kits:

1. Once the first piercing of the vial has been made, is there a time limit on the remainder of the vial? Or, does the drug contain a preservative to allow for extended storage?

Since the needle is sterile, as is the vial [you have to break off a plastic cap], I use this as if there is no particular time limit. This medication does not have a preservative as it is ment to be a single dose.

2. Are there requirements to the needle gage?

No. I use BD Ultra-Fine 1/2 cc, 1/2 inch, 30 guage needles. The fine guage needles hurt less -- less is good!

3. Since the vials come in packages of 5, are there unique storage requirements for the 'unopened' vials (refrigeration, etc.)?

Room temperature storage is recommended on the packaging, however for extended storage [beyond the recommended expiration date], the refridgerator is a good choice. I believe that some freeze the vials, but I have not tried that yet. Perhaps others can comment on that point.

4. Any other comments or problems with this method?

This is the best method for me. I've previously responded to you in another thread, but I bought a 6x4 inch zippered pouch that I keep 5 vials, 10 syringes, and about 50 alcohol prep pads. I also cut the prescription label off of the box and put that into the pouch. I always use a sterile syringe (well, try to), and always use an alcohol prep pad (BD makes good ones) on the area where I will inject. I "pinch up" some flesh on my upper thigh, and push the syringe slowly. Then I use the same prep pad to massage the area to prevent bruising and to help the medication be absorbed.

Because of my recent success with the split dosing, I am seriously looking into this method of Imitrex delivery.

Thanks again for all the great information everyone has given me here. I hope that I can reciprocate in kind, too.

If any of that is unclear, I'd be glad to try to explain further. I've been using this method for a long time!

Wishing you well,

Ray

Title: Re: Imitrex Vial Use Questions
Post by av8r3400 on Mar 2^nd, 2008, 8:51am

Thank you, Ray. I appreciate your information very much. Sounds like you have a well perfected system going there.

I think I may have beaten off this latest cluster, but I believe that I will be assembling something very closely based on your model for the next visit of the beast.

Maybe, I can keep him guessing for a while. You know, the whole best defence is a good offense theory... >:(

Title: Re: Imitrex Vial Use Questions
Post by Ray on Mar 2^nd, 2008, 1:57pm

You're very welcome. I hope you get a LONG break.

Ray