Counting clicks for in-between doses: why to use your pen only as prescribed
Online, people swap tips on counting clicks to set their own in-between doses. Why that isn't intended, what the risks are and what to do instead if a dose step doesn't suit you.
- GLP-1
- safety
- dosing
In short
Some pens can technically be set between the marked doses. Working out your own dose by counting clicks isn't intended: the amount delivered becomes uncertain, and your supply lasts differently from what was planned.
If a dose step doesn't suit you, that's one for your prescribing doctor, not for experiments with the pen.
What the click method is
The idea: instead of turning the dial to the marked dose, you count a set number of clicks to inject a smaller or larger amount. Some want to soften side effects, others to make a pen last longer.
The problem: pens are designed and tested for the marked doses. How much medicine a single click delivers can't be reliably determined by the user, and it differs between pens.
The risks
- Unclear dose: you don't know exactly how much medicine you're getting
- Too much instead of too little: miscount, and side effects get stronger
- Titration gets muddled, making tolerability hard to judge
- The pen runs out sooner or later than planned, and its in-use shelf life may be exceeded
- Use outside the authorisation, with all that means for safety
What to do instead
If a step feels too strong, say so at your progress check. It's often possible to stay longer on the current dose or step back down. That's decided by the prescriber.
And if cost is the concern: changing the dose on your own still isn't a good solution. It's better to find out what options there are for you.
Note
This Journal article offers general information. It is not a diagnosis, a prescription or a promise of any result. Whether treatment is suitable for you is decided by a doctor after reviewing your questionnaire. For acute or severe symptoms, contact your GP, the out-of-hours medical service (116117) or, in an emergency, 112. Whether and how a switch or a dose change happens is decided by the doctor in each individual case.
Sources and medical review
Based on manufacturers' prescribing information and instructions for use for GLP-1 pens. Educational only; does not replace an individual medical decision. Medical review pending.
- Manufacturers' prescribing information and instructions for use