Pen Priming

Pen Priming and Waste Management

Before you inject insulin for the first time, you have to prime the pen. Priming isn't just about clearing air bubbles; it ensures the mechanics of the pen are working correctly so you get the exact dose your body needs. Here is how to do it right, along with the math you need to know to protect your supply.

How to prime your pen:

Every single time you attach a new needle to your insulin pen you must perform a safety shot or a prime.

1. Dial your pen: Dial your pen to the amount of units according to the manufacturer. Turn the dose selector dial.

2. Point up: Hold the pen vertically with the needle pointing straight up into the air.

3. Tap the glass: Gently tap the side of the insulin cartridge to force any hidden air bubbles to the top. 

4. Push and watch: Press the injection button all the way in, look closely at the tip of the needle. 

5. The proof: You should see a steady stream or a drop of insulin appear. If nothing comes out repeat the process until you do.

THE HIDDEN CATCH: FACTORING WASTE INTO YOUR PRESCRIPTION

This is where beginners frequently get shorted by the pharmacy system.

• The math: If you inject rapid-acting insulin four times a day, you are priming four times a day. At 2 units per prime, that is eight units of insulin wasted every single day just to clear the air out of the needle. 

• The problem: Over a 30-day month that adds up to 240 units of wasted insulin (nearly an entire 3ML pen!) If your doctor only writes a prescription for your exact mealtime dose you will run out before your next refill date.

Insider Pharmacy Tip💡

When your endocrinologist writes the prescription, tell them: "Please calculate my total monthly units to include units of priming per injection." If the Doctor explicitly includes the phrase "include priming waste and quantity calculation" on the script, the pharmacy can legally bill your insurance for that extra pen you actually need to survive the month.