Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Peggy! I hear ya! When I hear people say they use the autoinjector I cringe! I could never use it, that *snap* makes me jump and tense, so of course they hurt more!!! I always had Rob give me the shot, copaxone shots are not too bad, I even was able to give myself a few...but that autoinjector...no way!!! Of course...needle-less to say I am OFF the C.R.A.B's and onto LDN! Hugs Akiba -- Auto Injector 2 I got my Auto Injector 2 via Fed Ex yesterday. I have to tell you all it looks like a weapon of mass destruction!!!! It's as long as my foot, it took my daughter and I 10 minutes to figure out how it all went together, and she's going to be a nurse, and then when we did figure it out and we fired it, the snap made us both jump and Zack covered his ears!!!!!Not at all what I was expecting. I don't know what I WAS expecting but this wasn't it. I was hoping for something small and compact, something that wasn't complex and certainly something that was quiet. I am never going to be able to give myself a shot with this thing!!! I'd much rather hear the word "pinch" and then get the needle then hear the SNAP and end up jumping or have an anxiety attack knowing that when I pull that button back the SNAP is coming and to prepare myself for the needle and then have to sit there until the red lines meet until I take the needle out.Don't you think they could invent something that was a little on the quiet side for people who are afraid of needles like me. Oh I know I must sound like such a baby, but I AM!!! It makes me think I'd rather have the Avonex and suffer through with the flu like symptoms!!! I still haven't heard when the Copaxone is coming so I guess I will have to call Shared Solutions to find out what is going on. Maybe the nurse can come when my hubby is home and then he can give me my shots, lol. I'm sure he'd love to do it.Hugs,Peggy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Hi Peggy all that will be very simple to you after time and a year from now you will look back and wonder what you were so worried about because all of this is so easy. The tip of the Auto injector can be adjusted to limit how much of the needle sticks you. I have mine set to around 6. Some insulin needles are so small they barely pierce the skin but that is all it takes. I keep a weeks supply in that supply bag they give you and the rest in the fridge. I always roll the copaxone in the palm of my hands a little to warm it a little more. A cold shot can hurt a lot sometimes. After having no choice but to take my 2 insulin shots a day one more Copaxone shot is easy for me. I throw my used copaxone into a liquid soap container. It then goes out with the trash. I would be in serious trouble if I ever decided to quit my insulin. I want me kids to still have a father for many years. So I keep that in my mind all the time. I think I could live without my Copaxone OK but if it will slow down the troubles I will have with this MS I want to take that chance. My kids will hopefully give me grand kids someday. I won't be able to run with them not using my walker but maybe still well enough to play a fun game with them. Bill Auto Injector 2 I got my Auto Injector 2 via Fed Ex yesterday. I have to tell you all it looks like a weapon of mass destruction!!!! It's as long as my foot, it took my daughter and I 10 minutes to figure out how it all went together, and she's going to be a nurse, and then when we did figure it out and we fired it, the snap made us both jump and Zack covered his ears!!!!!Not at all what I was expecting. I don't know what I WAS expecting but this wasn't it. I was hoping for something small and compact, something that wasn't complex and certainly something that was quiet. I am never going to be able to give myself a shot with this thing!!! I'd much rather hear the word "pinch" and then get the needle then hear the SNAP and end up jumping or have an anxiety attack knowing that when I pull that button back the SNAP is coming and to prepare myself for the needle and then have to sit there until the red lines meet until I take the needle out.Don't you think they could invent something that was a little on the quiet side for people who are afraid of needles like me. Oh I know I must sound like such a baby, but I AM!!! It makes me think I'd rather have the Avonex and suffer through with the flu like symptoms!!! I still haven't heard when the Copaxone is coming so I guess I will have to call Shared Solutions to find out what is going on. Maybe the nurse can come when my hubby is home and then he can give me my shots, lol. I'm sure he'd love to do it.Hugs,Peggy Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Peggy, That huge multi-colored tube IS intimidating.. at first.. and my very first injection I shot $70 worth of meds crossed the computer room as well.. I wasn't too bright, and I actually had to call on the phone and ask him what I did wrong.. LOL.. I tried to do the same thing last week as well.. actually did do the same thing, except took the auto-ject to the bathroom and let it shoot out into the sink.. when I realized I had put it against my leg, and pushed the button.. only to realize that the reason I wasn't seeing the red lines appear.. was because I left that red/orangeish cap on the auto-ject!! The loud " snap " you heard was because it was a dry fire.... it really doesn't snap that loud when there is a syringe in the tube... the tube was empty. causing a loud echo.. when there's a syringe in there.. instead of snapping like that.. the (I'm hoping your's is the same color as mine.. red/orangeish tip, blue barrel, gray backend) yellow plunger thingie inside.. but when there is a syringe in there.. the yellow thing, does make a noise, just not the loud snap that you heard, when it contacts the plunger of the syringe. No, it's not compact like you would think it would be.. but I do also believe that design is for people who have less control over their hands, be it from Ole Arthur or MS.. The size is just like handing a Toddler one of those FAT crayons to color with, rather than the thin ones that older kids & adults like me use.. You need less fine motor control to handle this huge thing.. I actually find it quite handy that it's that large, when I'm trying to do my right arm, because I'm right handed.. and I have very little feeling in my left hand. The only spot on my body that I can't reach, and has to inject is my left hip.. because either from fat or lack of being able to contort my body like I used to or from reduced range of motion.. I really want to believe it's not the fat, though I highly suspect I'm wrong, that prevents me from doing the left hip.. LOL. You will be able to inject with it.. honest you will... I didn't think I could either.. but I do it now.. with very little thought.. BUT we all learned to manually inject as well.. I taught everyone in the family to do it.. Even the 11 & 12 year olds know how to do a manual subcute injection now.. Lord knows their grandmother isn't going to teach them how to inject her insulin.. but there might come a time that someone NEEDS to know how to manually inject.. now the kids do.. though I wasn't able to teach them how to fill the syringe with insulin, I do believe that her insulin comes in pre-filled syringes as well.. Something I need to check.. and if it doesn't.. I need to make sure that someone knows how to pull off the insulin as well.. just in case... It's scary, I know... but I don't think the nurse will leave you on your own all alone to do the injections without knowing that you are able to do them alone.. (Sort of like putting in contact lenses for the first time.. and not being allowed to leave the eye docs office until you could put them in your eyes AND take them out by yourself....) and it really really doesn't take all that long for the red lines to meet.. it's actually longer if you do the manual inject and count to ten while injecting as the instructions tell you.. The real object of this exercise is to get the Copaxone inside your body.. and whatever it takes for you to be comfortable with getting it there.. is what it takes.. If you find that you absolutely can't do it.. get through the nurse's visit, (or do like I did, and not have her there at all.. it's not really much different than doing the Avonex injection.. the difference is angle you are injecting if you're injecting manually, if you use the auto-ject.. then it's the same angle.. the setting on the end makes the difference in the depth..) then pick a time when your daughter will definitely be home every day.. and let her inject.. have the hubby do it, or learn to do it.. and anybody else in the household actually, even a five year old could conceivably do it for you.. if you do the prep yourself and teach them how. I know you can do this.. I have every confidence in you.. |}onna Auto Injector 2 >I got my Auto Injector 2 via Fed Ex yesterday. I have to tell you all > it looks like a weapon of mass destruction!!!! It's as long as my > foot, it took my daughter and I 10 minutes to figure out how it all > went together, and she's going to be a nurse, and then when we did > figure it out and we fired it, the snap made us both jump and Zack > covered his ears!!!!! > > Not at all what I was expecting. I don't know what I WAS expecting > but this wasn't it. I was hoping for something small and compact, > something that wasn't complex and certainly something that was quiet. > I am never going to be able to give myself a shot with this thing!!! > I'd much rather hear the word " pinch " and then get the needle then > hear the SNAP and end up jumping or have an anxiety attack knowing > that when I pull that button back the SNAP is coming and to prepare > myself for the needle and then have to sit there until the red lines > meet until I take the needle out. > > Don't you think they could invent something that was a little on the > quiet side for people who are afraid of needles like me. Oh I know I > must sound like such a baby, but I AM!!! It makes me think I'd rather > have the Avonex and suffer through with the flu like symptoms!!! I > still haven't heard when the Copaxone is coming so I guess I will > have to call Shared Solutions to find out what is going on. Maybe the > nurse can come when my hubby is home and then he can give me my > shots, lol. I'm sure he'd love to do it. > > Hugs, > Peggy > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 -It does get easier. I close my eyes for the noise (yes, I know you hear with your ears, for some reason it helps anyway). I never would have figured it out initially without my RN neighbor. However, NOW it doesn't feel complex (it took me probably 2 months for it to be second nature, instead of having to re-think every time). Hugs, Amy -- In MSersLife , " Peggy " wrote: > > I got my Auto Injector 2 via Fed Ex yesterday. I have to tell you all > it looks like a weapon of mass destruction!!!! It's as long as my > foot, it took my daughter and I 10 minutes to figure out how it all > went together, and she's going to be a nurse, and then when we did > figure it out and we fired it, the snap made us both jump and Zack > covered his ears!!!!! > > Not at all what I was expecting. I don't know what I WAS expecting > but this wasn't it. I was hoping for something small and compact, > something that wasn't complex and certainly something that was quiet. > I am never going to be able to give myself a shot with this thing!!! > I'd much rather hear the word " pinch " and then get the needle then > hear the SNAP and end up jumping or have an anxiety attack knowing > that when I pull that button back the SNAP is coming and to prepare > myself for the needle and then have to sit there until the red lines > meet until I take the needle out. > > Don't you think they could invent something that was a little on the > quiet side for people who are afraid of needles like me. Oh I know I > must sound like such a baby, but I AM!!! It makes me think I'd rather > have the Avonex and suffer through with the flu like symptoms!!! I > still haven't heard when the Copaxone is coming so I guess I will > have to call Shared Solutions to find out what is going on. Maybe the > nurse can come when my hubby is home and then he can give me my > shots, lol. I'm sure he'd love to do it. > > Hugs, > Peggy > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Donna, Where do you live? Would you like to come and give me my daily injections? LOL!!! I have never given myself a shot or injection. My sister or my daughter or my husband or I have even gone to the dr. to have the nurse do it for me. I have never, ever done it. I just panic too much. I am such a wuss!! I will try, I guess I have no choice really. If you say that it isn't that loud of a sound, I will believe you. The nurse from the drs. office called back today after I had called about my left leg and the right side of my face twitching last week. She said to continue with the Copaxone, which is kind of funny since I haven't even received it yet, and to let them know if I didn't return back to my norm, which I'm not sure what that is yet since I haven't been there since January as far as I know. I did find out that I should know by Friday when the Copaxone is coming. It's being shipped to me by either UPS or Fed Ex. I will have the nurse come when and are home so they can learn with me. My right leg is bothering me today, it's been pretty much numb most of the day, I'm wondering though if it's because I skipped my Avonex shot this week and haven't had any medicine at all since last Tuesday besides the pills. Busy days ahead tomorrow and Fri. Tomorrow therapy appt. for and I with Zack's therapist, then has an interview for a CNA position at a Nursing Home, then at 4 she has the 2nd shot for, of course I can't remember what it's called, at the Gyno, for the sexually transmitted disease that causes cancer. I do know the name just can't think of it now. Hubby is working overtime so won't be home until 9 or so. Friday is Zack's graduation from preschool at 12:30 then they have a reception. Hoping to feel better by then. As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!! Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I actually have to do the first injection. Hugs, Peggy > > Peggy, > > That huge multi-colored tube IS intimidating.. at first.. and my very first > injection I shot $70 worth of meds crossed the computer room as well.. I > wasn't too bright, and I actually had to call on the phone and ask him > what I did wrong.. LOL.. I tried to do the same thing last week as well.. > actually did do the same thing, except took the auto-ject to the > bathroom and let it shoot out into the sink.. when I realized I had put it > against my leg, and pushed the button.. only to realize that the reason I > wasn't seeing the red lines appear.. was because I left that red/orangeish > cap on the auto-ject!! > > The loud " snap " you heard was because it was a dry fire.... it really > doesn't snap that loud when there is a syringe in the tube... the tube was > empty. causing a loud echo.. when there's a syringe in there.. instead of > snapping like that.. the (I'm hoping your's is the same color as mine.. > red/orangeish tip, blue barrel, gray backend) yellow plunger thingie > inside.. but when there is a syringe in there.. the yellow thing, does make > a noise, just not the loud snap that you heard, when it contacts the plunger > of the syringe. > > No, it's not compact like you would think it would be.. but I do also > believe that design is for people who have less control over their hands, be > it from Ole Arthur or MS.. The size is just like handing a Toddler one of > those FAT crayons to color with, rather than the thin ones that older kids & > adults like me use.. You need less fine motor control to handle this huge > thing.. I actually find it quite handy that it's that large, when I'm trying > to do my right arm, because I'm right handed.. and I have very little > feeling in my left hand. The only spot on my body that I can't reach, and > has to inject is my left hip.. because either from fat or lack of being > able to contort my body like I used to or from reduced range of motion.. I > really want to believe it's not the fat, though I highly suspect I'm wrong, > that prevents me from doing the left hip.. LOL. > > You will be able to inject with it.. honest you will... I didn't think I > could either.. but I do it now.. with very little thought.. BUT we all > learned to manually inject as well.. I taught everyone in the family to do > it.. Even the 11 & 12 year olds know how to do a manual subcute injection > now.. Lord knows their grandmother isn't going to teach them how to inject > her insulin.. but there might come a time that someone NEEDS to know how to > manually inject.. now the kids do.. though I wasn't able to teach them how > to fill the syringe with insulin, I do believe that her insulin comes in > pre-filled syringes as well.. Something I need to check.. and if it > doesn't.. I need to make sure that someone knows how to pull off the insulin > as well.. just in case... > > It's scary, I know... but I don't think the nurse will leave you on your own > all alone to do the injections without knowing that you are able to do them > alone.. (Sort of like putting in contact lenses for the first time.. and not > being allowed to leave the eye docs office until you could put them in your > eyes AND take them out by yourself....) and it really really doesn't take > all that long for the red lines to meet.. it's actually longer if you do the > manual inject and count to ten while injecting as the instructions tell > you.. > > The real object of this exercise is to get the Copaxone inside your body.. > and whatever it takes for you to be comfortable with getting it there.. is > what it takes.. If you find that you absolutely can't do it.. get through > the nurse's visit, (or do like I did, and not have her there at all.. it's > not really much different than doing the Avonex injection.. the difference > is angle you are injecting if you're injecting manually, if you use the > auto-ject.. then it's the same angle.. the setting on the end makes the > difference in the depth..) then pick a time when your daughter will > definitely be home every day.. and let her inject.. have the hubby do it, or > learn to do it.. and anybody else in the household actually, even a five > year old could conceivably do it for you.. if you do the prep yourself and > teach them how. > > I know you can do this.. I have every confidence in you.. > > |}onna > > > > Auto Injector 2 > > > >I got my Auto Injector 2 via Fed Ex yesterday. I have to tell you all > > it looks like a weapon of mass destruction!!!! It's as long as my > > foot, it took my daughter and I 10 minutes to figure out how it all > > went together, and she's going to be a nurse, and then when we did > > figure it out and we fired it, the snap made us both jump and Zack > > covered his ears!!!!! > > > > Not at all what I was expecting. I don't know what I WAS expecting > > but this wasn't it. I was hoping for something small and compact, > > something that wasn't complex and certainly something that was quiet. > > I am never going to be able to give myself a shot with this thing!!! > > I'd much rather hear the word " pinch " and then get the needle then > > hear the SNAP and end up jumping or have an anxiety attack knowing > > that when I pull that button back the SNAP is coming and to prepare > > myself for the needle and then have to sit there until the red lines > > meet until I take the needle out. > > > > Don't you think they could invent something that was a little on the > > quiet side for people who are afraid of needles like me. Oh I know I > > must sound like such a baby, but I AM!!! It makes me think I'd rather > > have the Avonex and suffer through with the flu like symptoms!!! I > > still haven't heard when the Copaxone is coming so I guess I will > > have to call Shared Solutions to find out what is going on. Maybe the > > nurse can come when my hubby is home and then he can give me my > > shots, lol. I'm sure he'd love to do it. > > > > Hugs, > > Peggy > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Peggy, I use an auto injector with Rebif. It is a little intimidating at first but then it becomes second nature. I can do the whole thing in just a few minutes while it used to be a huge production. I started off on Avonex and didn’t like it at all. The flu-like symptoms were bad but the needle freaked me out every week. I had to have a glass of wine every Saturday night before the shot. You will be amazed at how easy it is once you get used to it. J Connie From: MSersLife [mailto:MSersLife ] On Behalf Of Peggy Sent: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 6:20 PM To: MSersLife Subject: Re: Auto Injector 2 Donna, Where do you live? Would you like to come and give me my daily injections? LOL!!! I have never given myself a shot or injection. My sister or my daughter or my husband or I have even gone to the dr. to have the nurse do it for me. I have never, ever done it. I just panic too much. I am such a wuss!! I will try, I guess I have no choice really. If you say that it isn't that loud of a sound, I will believe you. The nurse from the drs. office called back today after I had called about my left leg and the right side of my face twitching last week. She said to continue with the Copaxone, which is kind of funny since I haven't even received it yet, and to let them know if I didn't return back to my norm, which I'm not sure what that is yet since I haven't been there since January as far as I know. I did find out that I should know by Friday when the Copaxone is coming. It's being shipped to me by either UPS or Fed Ex. I will have the nurse come when and are home so they can learn with me. My right leg is bothering me today, it's been pretty much numb most of the day, I'm wondering though if it's because I skipped my Avonex shot this week and haven't had any medicine at all since last Tuesday besides the pills. Busy days ahead tomorrow and Fri. Tomorrow therapy appt. for and I with Zack's therapist, then has an interview for a CNA position at a Nursing Home, then at 4 she has the 2nd shot for, of course I can't remember what it's called, at the Gyno, for the sexually transmitted disease that causes cancer. I do know the name just can't think of it now. Hubby is working overtime so won't be home until 9 or so. Friday is Zack's graduation from preschool at 12:30 then they have a reception. Hoping to feel better by then. As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!! Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I actually have to do the first injection. Hugs, Peggy > > Peggy, > > That huge multi-colored tube IS intimidating.. at first.. and my very first > injection I shot $70 worth of meds crossed the computer room as well.. I > wasn't too bright, and I actually had to call on the phone and ask him > what I did wrong.. LOL.. I tried to do the same thing last week as well.. > actually did do the same thing, except took the auto-ject to the > bathroom and let it shoot out into the sink.. when I realized I had put it > against my leg, and pushed the button.. only to realize that the reason I > wasn't seeing the red lines appear.. was because I left that red/orangeish > cap on the auto-ject!! > > The loud " snap " you heard was because it was a dry fire.... it really > doesn't snap that loud when there is a syringe in the tube... the tube was > empty. causing a loud echo.. when there's a syringe in there.. instead of > snapping like that.. the (I'm hoping your's is the same color as mine.. > red/orangeish tip, blue barrel, gray backend) yellow plunger thingie > inside.. but when there is a syringe in there.. the yellow thing, does make > a noise, just not the loud snap that you heard, when it contacts the plunger > of the syringe. > > No, it's not compact like you would think it would be.. but I do also > believe that design is for people who have less control over their hands, be > it from Ole Arthur or MS.. The size is just like handing a Toddler one of > those FAT crayons to color with, rather than the thin ones that older kids & > adults like me use.. You need less fine motor control to handle this huge > thing.. I actually find it quite handy that it's that large, when I'm trying > to do my right arm, because I'm right handed.. and I have very little > feeling in my left hand. The only spot on my body that I can't reach, and > has to inject is my left hip.. because either from fat or lack of being > able to contort my body like I used to or from reduced range of motion.. I > really want to believe it's not the fat, though I highly suspect I'm wrong, > that prevents me from doing the left hip.. LOL. > > You will be able to inject with it.. honest you will... I didn't think I > could either.. but I do it now.. with very little thought.. BUT we all > learned to manually inject as well.. I taught everyone in the family to do > it.. Even the 11 & 12 year olds know how to do a manual subcute injection > now.. Lord knows their grandmother isn't going to teach them how to inject > her insulin.. but there might come a time that someone NEEDS to know how to > manually inject.. now the kids do.. though I wasn't able to teach them how > to fill the syringe with insulin, I do believe that her insulin comes in > pre-filled syringes as well.. Something I need to check.. and if it > doesn't.. I need to make sure that someone knows how to pull off the insulin > as well.. just in case... > > It's scary, I know... but I don't think the nurse will leave you on your own > all alone to do the injections without knowing that you are able to do them > alone.. (Sort of like putting in contact lenses for the first time.. and not > being allowed to leave the eye docs office until you could put them in your > eyes AND take them out by yourself....) and it really really doesn't take > all that long for the red lines to meet.. it's actually longer if you do the > manual inject and count to ten while injecting as the instructions tell > you.. > > The real object of this exercise is to get the Copaxone inside your body.. > and whatever it takes for you to be comfortable with getting it there.. is > what it takes.. If you find that you absolutely can't do it.. get through > the nurse's visit, (or do like I did, and not have her there at all.. it's > not really much different than doing the Avonex injection.. the difference > is angle you are injecting if you're injecting manually, if you use the > auto-ject.. then it's the same angle.. the setting on the end makes the > difference in the depth..) then pick a time when your daughter will > definitely be home every day.. and let her inject.. have the hubby do it, or > learn to do it.. and anybody else in the household actually, even a five > year old could conceivably do it for you.. if you do the prep yourself and > teach them how. > > I know you can do this.. I have every confidence in you.. > > |}onna > > > > Auto Injector 2 > > > >I got my Auto Injector 2 via Fed Ex yesterday. I have to tell you all > > it looks like a weapon of mass destruction!!!! It's as long as my > > foot, it took my daughter and I 10 minutes to figure out how it all > > went together, and she's going to be a nurse, and then when we did > > figure it out and we fired it, the snap made us both jump and Zack > > covered his ears!!!!! > > > > Not at all what I was expecting. I don't know what I WAS expecting > > but this wasn't it. I was hoping for something small and compact, > > something that wasn't complex and certainly something that was quiet. > > I am never going to be able to give myself a shot with this thing!!! > > I'd much rather hear the word " pinch " and then get the needle then > > hear the SNAP and end up jumping or have an anxiety attack knowing > > that when I pull that button back the SNAP is coming and to prepare > > myself for the needle and then have to sit there until the red lines > > meet until I take the needle out. > > > > Don't you think they could invent something that was a little on the > > quiet side for people who are afraid of needles like me. Oh I know I > > must sound like such a baby, but I AM!!! It makes me think I'd rather > > have the Avonex and suffer through with the flu like symptoms!!! I > > still haven't heard when the Copaxone is coming so I guess I will > > have to call Shared Solutions to find out what is going on. Maybe the > > nurse can come when my hubby is home and then he can give me my > > shots, lol. I'm sure he'd love to do it. > > > > Hugs, > > Peggy > > > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 Actually, if you were near I would be right over to help you learn to do this. The auto-ject will make a sound, it just won't be the loud one that you heard on the dry-fire. And you might hear a squish sound at the end.. I do when I inject my arms.. but then it's close enough to my ear to hear it easily.. Remember this injection is not like the Avonex.. and really the most you're going to feel, well at least all I've evre felt was a stinging sensation.. much like a bee sting.. just remember to NOT do it on the back side of your leg.. cause you will sit on it, causing it to sting longer if you do.. I did the first night.. Oh, and you will use your belly for injecting.. 7 days, 7 spots.. And the belly was THE ONE that gave me the most apprehension.. Even though my sister-in-law preferred to have her insulin injected in her stomach.. and claimed she never felt a thing when it went there.. I seriously had my doubts.. and I think I made do the first belly injection... (So see.. you aren't alone in being afraid) because I was afraid it was going to hurt something awful.. Probably because of the warnings I got as a kid to stay away from stray and wild animals, because if they had rabies and they scratch or bit me, I'd have to go through the rabies shots.. and they were all given in your stomach and they hurt something terrible... But after he did the first injection I was kind of like " Wow!.. I really thought that was going to hurt bad " ... If I'm not mistaken, I heard our Bill here say that he asked his nurse if he could do ALL of his injection in his stomach and she told him that he could.. and again, if I'm not mistaken.. he does two insulin and one copaxone daily.. in his stomach.. And it won't hurt to have and there to learn how to do the injection.. And there really isn't any reason that they can't give it to you either.. may be a little more squeamish than .. but he'll do it because he loves you.. doesn't like to do injection for me, but he will.. and he's very good at it as well.. though he does like the auto-ject better than manually.. he doesn't see the needle go in that way.. Oh if i could be there for you to cheer you on with your first injections, I would gladly hold your hand and cheer you through it all. The nice part of Copaxone is that you don't have to inject before you go to bed, in hopes of sleeping through the side effects.. so you can get up in the morning, and have your shot with your breakfast.. so long as you keep them 24 hours apart.. though I've kind of snuck a few in in less than 24 hours.. but only because it slipped my mind to do it on the days I wasn't going to work.. and by the time I realized that I had forgotten a few more hours (2 max 3) had passed after it should have been injected... To avoid that.. I try to pick up the syringe on my way through the living room, and lay it on my desk here in the computer room... so I will remember it.. I don't think the numbness in your leg is coming from your not having that last dose of Avonex.. But If I remember correctly, you're being switched because of some new lesions.. is my memory right? If that's the case, I'd say the numbness is coming from the new lesions.. but this too will pass.. just take it easy and rest as much as you can.. that will help.. Human Papilloma Virus?.. the one they have the new vaccine against that I've seen advertised on television?.. Well, it's nearly bedtime for me.. and I still have some clothes to launder so I have clean one for work tomorrow.. Talk to you soon |}onna Re: Auto Injector 2 > Donna, > > Where do you live? Would you like to come and give me my daily > injections? LOL!!! I have never given myself a shot or injection. My > sister or my daughter or my husband or I have even gone to the dr. to > have the nurse do it for me. I have never, ever done it. I just panic > too much. I am such a wuss!! I will try, I guess I have no choice > really. If you say that it isn't that loud of a sound, I will believe > you. > > The nurse from the drs. office called back today after I had called > about my left leg and the right side of my face twitching last week. > She said to continue with the Copaxone, which is kind of funny since > I haven't even received it yet, and to let them know if I didn't > return back to my norm, which I'm not sure what that is yet since I > haven't been there since January as far as I know. I did find out > that I should know by Friday when the Copaxone is coming. It's being > shipped to me by either UPS or Fed Ex. I will have the nurse come > when and are home so they can learn with me. > > My right leg is bothering me today, it's been pretty much numb most > of the day, I'm wondering though if it's because I skipped my Avonex > shot this week and haven't had any medicine at all since last Tuesday > besides the pills. Busy days ahead tomorrow and Fri. Tomorrow therapy > appt. for and I with Zack's therapist, then has an > interview for a CNA position at a Nursing Home, then at 4 she has the > 2nd shot for, of course I can't remember what it's called, at the > Gyno, for the sexually transmitted disease that causes cancer. I do > know the name just can't think of it now. Hubby is working overtime > so won't be home until 9 or so. Friday is Zack's graduation from > preschool at 12:30 then they have a reception. Hoping to feel better > by then. > > As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will > blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could > inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to > be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With > such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!! > > Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I > actually have to do the first injection. > > Hugs, > Peggy > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 I am with Bill. The stomach is the best area to inject in. It doesn’t hurt or sting as much. Maybe because there is less muscle…. Connie From: MSersLife [mailto:MSersLife ] On Behalf Of |}onna Sent: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 7:24 PM To: MSersLife Subject: Re: Auto Injector 2 Actually, if you were near I would be right over to help you learn to do this. The auto-ject will make a sound, it just won't be the loud one that you heard on the dry-fire. And you might hear a squish sound at the end.. I do when I inject my arms.. but then it's close enough to my ear to hear it easily.. Remember this injection is not like the Avonex.. and really the most you're going to feel, well at least all I've evre felt was a stinging sensation.. much like a bee sting.. just remember to NOT do it on the back side of your leg.. cause you will sit on it, causing it to sting longer if you do.. I did the first night.. Oh, and you will use your belly for injecting.. 7 days, 7 spots.. And the belly was THE ONE that gave me the most apprehension.. Even though my sister-in-law preferred to have her insulin injected in her stomach.. and claimed she never felt a thing when it went there.. I seriously had my doubts.. and I think I made do the first belly injection... (So see.. you aren't alone in being afraid) because I was afraid it was going to hurt something awful.. Probably because of the warnings I got as a kid to stay away from stray and wild animals, because if they had rabies and they scratch or bit me, I'd have to go through the rabies shots.. and they were all given in your stomach and they hurt something terrible... But after he did the first injection I was kind of like " Wow!.. I really thought that was going to hurt bad " ... If I'm not mistaken, I heard our Bill here say that he asked his nurse if he could do ALL of his injection in his stomach and she told him that he could.. and again, if I'm not mistaken.. he does two insulin and one copaxone daily.. in his stomach.. And it won't hurt to have and there to learn how to do the injection.. And there really isn't any reason that they can't give it to you either.. may be a little more squeamish than .. but he'll do it because he loves you.. doesn't like to do injection for me, but he will.. and he's very good at it as well.. though he does like the auto-ject better than manually.. he doesn't see the needle go in that way.. Oh if i could be there for you to cheer you on with your first injections, I would gladly hold your hand and cheer you through it all. The nice part of Copaxone is that you don't have to inject before you go to bed, in hopes of sleeping through the side effects.. so you can get up in the morning, and have your shot with your breakfast.. so long as you keep them 24 hours apart.. though I've kind of snuck a few in in less than 24 hours.. but only because it slipped my mind to do it on the days I wasn't going to work.. and by the time I realized that I had forgotten a few more hours (2 max 3) had passed after it should have been injected... To avoid that.. I try to pick up the syringe on my way through the living room, and lay it on my desk here in the computer room... so I will remember it.. I don't think the numbness in your leg is coming from your not having that last dose of Avonex.. But If I remember correctly, you're being switched because of some new lesions.. is my memory right? If that's the case, I'd say the numbness is coming from the new lesions.. but this too will pass.. just take it easy and rest as much as you can.. that will help.. Human Papilloma Virus?.. the one they have the new vaccine against that I've seen advertised on television?.. Well, it's nearly bedtime for me.. and I still have some clothes to launder so I have clean one for work tomorrow.. Talk to you soon |}onna Re: Auto Injector 2 > Donna, > > Where do you live? Would you like to come and give me my daily > injections? LOL!!! I have never given myself a shot or injection. My > sister or my daughter or my husband or I have even gone to the dr. to > have the nurse do it for me. I have never, ever done it. I just panic > too much. I am such a wuss!! I will try, I guess I have no choice > really. If you say that it isn't that loud of a sound, I will believe > you. > > The nurse from the drs. office called back today after I had called > about my left leg and the right side of my face twitching last week. > She said to continue with the Copaxone, which is kind of funny since > I haven't even received it yet, and to let them know if I didn't > return back to my norm, which I'm not sure what that is yet since I > haven't been there since January as far as I know. I did find out > that I should know by Friday when the Copaxone is coming. It's being > shipped to me by either UPS or Fed Ex. I will have the nurse come > when and are home so they can learn with me. > > My right leg is bothering me today, it's been pretty much numb most > of the day, I'm wondering though if it's because I skipped my Avonex > shot this week and haven't had any medicine at all since last Tuesday > besides the pills. Busy days ahead tomorrow and Fri. Tomorrow therapy > appt. for and I with Zack's therapist, then has an > interview for a CNA position at a Nursing Home, then at 4 she has the > 2nd shot for, of course I can't remember what it's called, at the > Gyno, for the sexually transmitted disease that causes cancer. I do > know the name just can't think of it now. Hubby is working overtime > so won't be home until 9 or so. Friday is Zack's graduation from > preschool at 12:30 then they have a reception. Hoping to feel better > by then. > > As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will > blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could > inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to > be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With > such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!! > > Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I > actually have to do the first injection. > > Hugs, > Peggy > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 20, 2007 Report Share Posted June 20, 2007 I totally agree. It's nothing....I couldn't believe so many were bothered by the pop noise. Kathi Peggy, I use an auto injector with Rebif. It is a little intimidating at first but then it becomes second nature. I can do the whole thing in just a few minutes while it used to be a huge production. I started off on Avonex and didn’t like it at all. The flu-like symptoms were bad but the needle freaked me out every week. I had to have a glass of wine every Saturday night before the shot. You will be amazed at how easy it is once you get used to it. J Connie From: MSersLife [mailto:MSersLife ] On Behalf Of PeggySent: Wednesday, June 20, 2007 6:20 PMTo: MSersLife Subject: Re: Auto Injector 2 Donna,Where do you live? Would you like to come and give me my daily injections? LOL!!! I have never given myself a shot or injection. My sister or my daughter or my husband or I have even gone to the dr. to have the nurse do it for me. I have never, ever done it. I just panic too much. I am such a wuss!! I will try, I guess I have no choice really. If you say that it isn't that loud of a sound, I will believe you.The nurse from the drs. office called back today after I had called about my left leg and the right side of my face twitching last week. She said to continue with the Copaxone, which is kind of funny since I haven't even received it yet, and to let them know if I didn't return back to my norm, which I'm not sure what that is yet since I haven't been there since January as far as I know. I did find out that I should know by Friday when the Copaxone is coming. It's being shipped to me by either UPS or Fed Ex. I will have the nurse come when and are home so they can learn with me.My right leg is bothering me today, it's been pretty much numb most of the day, I'm wondering though if it's because I skipped my Avonex shot this week and haven't had any medicine at all since last Tuesday besides the pills. Busy days ahead tomorrow and Fri. Tomorrow therapy appt. for and I with Zack's therapist, then has an interview for a CNA position at a Nursing Home, then at 4 she has the 2nd shot for, of course I can't remember what it's called, at the Gyno, for the sexually transmitted disease that causes cancer. I do know the name just can't think of it now. Hubby is working overtime so won't be home until 9 or so. Friday is Zack's graduation from preschool at 12:30 then they have a reception. Hoping to feel better by then.As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!!Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I actually have to do the first injection.Hugs,Peggy>> Peggy,> > That huge multi-colored tube IS intimidating.. at first.. and my very first > injection I shot $70 worth of meds crossed the computer room as well.. I > wasn't too bright, and I actually had to call on the phone and ask him > what I did wrong.. LOL.. I tried to do the same thing last week as well.. > actually did do the same thing, except took the auto-ject to the > bathroom and let it shoot out into the sink.. when I realized I had put it > against my leg, and pushed the button.. only to realize that the reason I > wasn't seeing the red lines appear.. was because I left that red/orangeish > cap on the auto-ject!!> > The loud "snap" you heard was because it was a dry fire.... it really > doesn't snap that loud when there is a syringe in the tube... the tube was > empty. causing a loud echo.. when there's a syringe in there.. instead of > snapping like that.. the (I'm hoping your's is the same color as mine.. > red/orangeish tip, blue barrel, gray backend) yellow plunger thingie > inside.. but when there is a syringe in there.. the yellow thing, does make > a noise, just not the loud snap that you heard, when it contacts the plunger > of the syringe.> > No, it's not compact like you would think it would be.. but I do also > believe that design is for people who have less control over their hands, be > it from Ole Arthur or MS.. The size is just like handing a Toddler one of > those FAT crayons to color with, rather than the thin ones that older kids & > adults like me use.. You need less fine motor control to handle this huge > thing.. I actually find it quite handy that it's that large, when I'm trying > to do my right arm, because I'm right handed.. and I have very little > feeling in my left hand. The only spot on my body that I can't reach, and > has to inject is my left hip.. because either from fat or lack of being > able to contort my body like I used to or from reduced range of motion.. I > really want to believe it's not the fat, though I highly suspect I'm wrong, > that prevents me from doing the left hip.. LOL.> > You will be able to inject with it.. honest you will... I didn't think I > could either.. but I do it now.. with very little thought.. BUT we all > learned to manually inject as well.. I taught everyone in the family to do > it.. Even the 11 & 12 year olds know how to do a manual subcute injection > now.. Lord knows their grandmother isn't going to teach them how to inject > her insulin.. but there might come a time that someone NEEDS to know how to > manually inject.. now the kids do.. though I wasn't able to teach them how > to fill the syringe with insulin, I do believe that her insulin comes in > pre-filled syringes as well.. Something I need to check.. and if it > doesn't.. I need to make sure that someone knows how to pull off the insulin > as well.. just in case...> > It's scary, I know... but I don't think the nurse will leave you on your own > all alone to do the injections without knowing that you are able to do them > alone.. (Sort of like putting in contact lenses for the first time.. and not > being allowed to leave the eye docs office until you could put them in your > eyes AND take them out by yourself....) and it really really doesn't take > all that long for the red lines to meet.. it's actually longer if you do the > manual inject and count to ten while injecting as the instructions tell > you..> > The real object of this exercise is to get the Copaxone inside your body.. > and whatever it takes for you to be comfortable with getting it there.. is > what it takes.. If you find that you absolutely can't do it.. get through > the nurse's visit, (or do like I did, and not have her there at all.. it's > not really much different than doing the Avonex injection.. the difference > is angle you are injecting if you're injecting manually, if you use the > auto-ject.. then it's the same angle.. the setting on the end makes the > difference in the depth..) then pick a time when your daughter will > definitely be home every day.. and let her inject.. have the hubby do it, or > learn to do it.. and anybody else in the household actually, even a five > year old could conceivably do it for you.. if you do the prep yourself and > teach them how.> > I know you can do this.. I have every confidence in you..> > |}onna> > > > Auto Injector 2> > > >I got my Auto Injector 2 via Fed Ex yesterday. I have to tell you all> > it looks like a weapon of mass destruction!!!! It's as long as my> > foot, it took my daughter and I 10 minutes to figure out how it all> > went together, and she's going to be a nurse, and then when we did> > figure it out and we fired it, the snap made us both jump and Zack> > covered his ears!!!!!> >> > Not at all what I was expecting. I don't know what I WAS expecting> > but this wasn't it. I was hoping for something small and compact,> > something that wasn't complex and certainly something that was quiet.> > I am never going to be able to give myself a shot with this thing!!!> > I'd much rather hear the word "pinch" and then get the needle then> > hear the SNAP and end up jumping or have an anxiety attack knowing> > that when I pull that button back the SNAP is coming and to prepare> > myself for the needle and then have to sit there until the red lines> > meet until I take the needle out.> >> > Don't you think they could invent something that was a little on the> > quiet side for people who are afraid of needles like me. Oh I know I> > must sound like such a baby, but I AM!!! It makes me think I'd rather> > have the Avonex and suffer through with the flu like symptoms!!! I> > still haven't heard when the Copaxone is coming so I guess I will> > have to call Shared Solutions to find out what is going on. Maybe the> > nurse can come when my hubby is home and then he can give me my> > shots, lol. I'm sure he'd love to do it.> >> > Hugs,> > Peggy> >> >> >> > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2007 Report Share Posted June 21, 2007 I take my insulin shots mostly in my stomach area and my Copaxone I rotate where they teach for the rotation. Bill Re: Auto Injector 2> Donna,>> Where do you live? Would you like to come and give me my daily> injections? LOL!!! I have never given myself a shot or injection. My> sister or my daughter or my husband or I have even gone to the dr. to> have the nurse do it for me. I have never, ever done it. I just panic> too much. I am such a wuss!! I will try, I guess I have no choice> really. If you say that it isn't that loud of a sound, I will believe> you.>> The nurse from the drs. office called back today after I had called> about my left leg and the right side of my face twitching last week.> She said to continue with the Copaxone, which is kind of funny since> I haven't even received it yet, and to let them know if I didn't> return back to my norm, which I'm not sure what that is yet since I> haven't been there since January as far as I know. I did find out> that I should know by Friday when the Copaxone is coming. It's being> shipped to me by either UPS or Fed Ex. I will have the nurse come> when and are home so they can learn with me.>> My right leg is bothering me today, it's been pretty much numb most> of the day, I'm wondering though if it's because I skipped my Avonex> shot this week and haven't had any medicine at all since last Tuesday> besides the pills. Busy days ahead tomorrow and Fri. Tomorrow therapy> appt. for and I with Zack's therapist, then has an> interview for a CNA position at a Nursing Home, then at 4 she has the> 2nd shot for, of course I can't remember what it's called, at the> Gyno, for the sexually transmitted disease that causes cancer. I do> know the name just can't think of it now. Hubby is working overtime> so won't be home until 9 or so. Friday is Zack's graduation from> preschool at 12:30 then they have a reception. Hoping to feel better> by then.>> As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will> blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could> inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to> be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With> such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!!>> Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I> actually have to do the first injection.>> Hugs,> Peggy>> Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2007 Report Share Posted June 21, 2007 I've been on Copaxone 1.5 years. I'll admit I don't read the direcctions anymore. However, at least 1.5 years ago, one of hte 7 suggested spots (one per day of the week) was belly. The picture shows a smallish circle aroudn the belly button - no closer than 2 " from belly button, and somehow not above belly button. Here, Friday is right arm, Sat left arm, Sun right hip, Mon left hip, Tues right thigh, Weds left thigh, Thurs belly. I then also have a pattern for WHERE within those sites I shot ... start at top right, then each week move down an inch or so for 4 weeks, then start at top left, etc. Rinse & repeat. It's worked nicely. And I promise the auto ject gets easier. Amy >> As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will > blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could > inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to > be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With > such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!! > > Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I > actually have to do the first injection. > > Hugs, > Peggy > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2007 Report Share Posted June 21, 2007 Good gosh Amy, how do you remember all that? I think I will probably have to make up a chart!!! Does anyone do that? I will never be able to remember that. I lost my son't candy bar yesterday. I gave him a piece and folded it up and put it somewhere and then he was looking for it and came to ask me and I was dumbfounded. I had no clue. they did eventually find it. I had put it back in the fridge, just not in the same place. Maybe I can just right on the calendar where I had my shot, that would work ok, right? Hugs, Peggy > > I've been on Copaxone 1.5 years. I'll admit I don't read the > direcctions anymore. However, at least 1.5 years ago, one of hte 7 > suggested spots (one per day of the week) was belly. The picture shows > a smallish circle aroudn the belly button - no closer than 2 " from > belly button, and somehow not above belly button. > > Here, Friday is right arm, Sat left arm, Sun right hip, Mon left hip, > Tues right thigh, Weds left thigh, Thurs belly. I then also have a > pattern for WHERE within those sites I shot ... start at top right, > then each week move down an inch or so for 4 weeks, then start at top > left, etc. Rinse & repeat. > > It's worked nicely. > And I promise the auto ject gets easier. > Amy > > > >> As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I will > > blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we could > > inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has to > > be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? With > > such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, LOL!!! > > > > Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before I > > actually have to do the first injection. > > > > Hugs, > > Peggy > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Guest guest Posted June 21, 2007 Report Share Posted June 21, 2007 LOL, I had to learn a pattern because I couldn't keep track of writing it down. I made my pattern by working top down, right to left .. so starts with right arm, then left arm, then right/left hip, then right/left thigh, then belly is left & start over. The *where within the site* stays the same for the whole week ... in EACH site, I'm doing the same location (so this week I'm about 3/4 of the way down the left side of whichever location I'm shotting.) Whatever pattern works for you - they sent a whole booklet with images to circle every day, adn that just did NOT work for me. Amy > > > > I've been on Copaxone 1.5 years. I'll admit I don't read the > > direcctions anymore. However, at least 1.5 years ago, one of hte 7 > > suggested spots (one per day of the week) was belly. The picture > shows > > a smallish circle aroudn the belly button - no closer than 2 " from > > belly button, and somehow not above belly button. > > > > Here, Friday is right arm, Sat left arm, Sun right hip, Mon left > hip, > > Tues right thigh, Weds left thigh, Thurs belly. I then also have a > > pattern for WHERE within those sites I shot ... start at top right, > > then each week move down an inch or so for 4 weeks, then start at > top > > left, etc. Rinse & repeat. > > > > It's worked nicely. > > And I promise the auto ject gets easier. > > Amy > > > > > > >> As for the fat, I won't be able to reach my hip either, lol. I > will > > > blame the fat and the size of my ta ta's for that!!! I wish we > could > > > inject in the belly. I wonder why we can't. Is it because it has > to > > > be in the muscle? This isn't an intramuscular shot though is it? > With > > > such a small needle? Then it really wouldn't hurt on me at all, > LOL!!! > > > > > > Thanks for the pep talk Donna, I'm sure to need a few more before > I > > > actually have to do the first injection. > > > > > > Hugs, > > > Peggy > > > > > > Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You are posting as a guest. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.