Posted by Luke (208.236.74.65) on December 05, 2000 at 17:02:04:
I have a question about the Imitrex tip described on this page. To me, as to probably many of you, Imitrex has been a lifesaver. The shots are literally 100 percent effective in my case. Well anyway, something happened today that made me consider the "Tip". I gave myself a shot with the usual self-injector, but I must've hit a nerve or accidentally tightened my muscle, because I felt a strong pain(this happens occasionally and it's no big deal.) However, out of reflex, I pulled the needle out prematurely, and watched 2/3 of the contents pour out on my tricep instead of inside. Seeing how I'd only managed to inject 1/3 of the 6mg dose, I figured the pain would not be affected. However, the same sluggish feeling overcame me and the attack was gone within minutes, just like always. Moral? well it's obvious...2 mg is enough, just like the tip says!
Now that I believe it, here's my problem. Giving yourself a shot with a self-injector is one thing. It's simple, instant. Now I have to learn to do this manually. First of all, how exactly does one put the needle in? Slowly? Poke it in fast? How do I know I won't poke it in too hard? Will it go in too far? And once I've put it in, do I need to hold it in place while I push the stopper down? Or will it just "stay" in place? I realize these questions may seem silly to some of you, but I honestly need help figuring all this out. If someone could describe in more detail the method of the actual injection(the theory behind it I already understand), I'd be very grateful. Thanks! =)
Luke.