Comparison of Usability and Patient Preference for Insulin Pen Needles Produced with Different Production Techniques: “Thin-Wall” Needles Compared to “Regular-Wall” Needles: An Open-Label Study

Abstract Background: People with diabetes mellitus on insulin therapy increasingly prefer insulin pens over syringes and vials. Different types of pen needles are available for insulin pens, e.g., “thin-wall” needles, which have the same outer diameter but a relatively lager inner diameter compared to needles produced with a “regular-wall.” Methods: We conducted a multicenter open-label, single-arm study in patients (n = 97) with diabetes mellitus using insulin pens. The aim of our study was to evaluate pen user habits as well as to assess patient's appraisals and ratings considering two different types of 31-gauge pen-needles, so-called “thin-wall” needles or “regular-wall” needles.” Patients twice underwent a 2-week intervention period, starting with a “regular-wall period” followed by a “thin-wall-period.” After each period patients filled in questionnaires. Results: In total, 97 diabetes patients (48% female; mean age, 56 years; range, 20–70 years) completed the study. Patients reported significantly ...