First time researching pens - some questions

[TrueNorth]

Just started researching with a Lilly pen....might be a knock off, but I digress

I have a few months research experience with syringes etc.

I had a couple of questions on researching with the pen.

1. When adding a new syringe to the Pen, are you supposed to try and sterilize the small opening where the syringe punctures the vial. I am currently sterilizing before and after research but wondering if it's necessary as it's a little finicky and awkward.

2. When researching with the pen, the dispenser gets fully depressed and then is kept inserted for about 10 seconds before removing. After removing the syringe there always seems to a be 2 or 3 small drops of research liquid that comes out, is this normal or am I researching incorrectly ?

Thanks

[Randy]

If it works it works. You should sterilize it every time but at 6am fasted i usually forget.

A drop or two is normal. equates to about a unit which is why I always say do 20 units or more in a pen. Hold it in and count to 10 after you are done pushing.

[TrueNorth]

@Randy Thanks for the response.

Higher dilution is a great idea. I'll definitely dilute the next batch as the current research amount is 10 units.

I do count to 10 after pushing already, so I'm good there.

I think I knew the answer on sterilization....don't even know why I asked...