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An insulin syringe has three parts: a needle, a barrel, and a plunger.
Insulin syringes are made in several sizes.
Syringe size
Number of units the syringe holds
1/4 mL or 0.25 mL
25
1/3 mL or 0.33 mL
30
1/2 mL or 0.50 mL
50
1 mL
100
Use the smallest syringe size you can for the dose of insulin you need. The measuring lines on the barrel of small syringes are farther apart and easier to see. When you choose the size of syringe, consider the number of units you need to give and how well you can see the markings on the barrel.
Current as of: February 28, 2023
Author: Healthwise StaffClinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review BoardAll Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
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