Introduction
What is subcutaneous infusion and where is Neria™ indicated?
Subcutaneous infusion continuously delivers medication over a longer period - in the fatty tissue beneath the skin.
On this page: Indications FAQ's
Subcutaneous infusion continuously delivers medication over a longer period into fatty tissue beneath the skin, where the body absorbs it. A needle penetrates the skin, leaving either the needle or a soft catheter in the tissue for up to 72 hours.
Needles and cannulas can vary in length, size, features and method of insertion. Using an infusion set for continuous subcutaneous infusion requires fewer injections (insertions) compared to injection therapy.
- Infusion pump
- Tubing
- Infusion set with needle and adhesive
The specific treatment set-up and type of medication is always determined by a healthcare professional.
Palliative care
Pain management is an important part of end of life care for individuals with serious illnesses where the aim is to improve quality of life. (1)
Parkinsons
Parkinson’s disease is a movement disorder of the nervous system that worsens over time. Certain treatments can be administered subcutaneously to provide a steady level of medication in the body. (2)
Immunodeficiencies
Subcutaneous infusion can deliver immunoglobulin (antibodies) under the skin to treat immunodeficiencies, which refers to a group of either inherited (primary immunodeficiencies) or acquired disorders that prevent the body’s immune system from working properly. (3)
Thalassemia
A heterogeneous group of blood disorders that affect haemoglobin, thalassemia results in iron overload and can be treated using iron chelating drugs delivered subcutaneously. (4)
Neria™
Get to know our infusion sets
A basic infusion set includes an insertion needle, adhesive pad, tubing and a luer-lock connector. The specific features of each Neria™ infusion set vary, and the right set will depend on your preferences and your patient’s treatment needs.
On this page: Components How to use Compare Real stories FAQ’s
Your choice for simplifying subcutaneous infusion
The Neria™ infusion sets are designed and approved for subcutaneous infusion in the treatment of diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, thalassemia, primary immune deficiency and pain management.*
*Convatec IC, data on file, D012-002912, 2023.
Neria™ infusion sets offer:
- Thin needles (G27)
- Built-in adhesive
- Double-layer, small bore tubing to minimise drug waste and priming volumes*
- Reduced risk of needle stick injury (with Neria™ Guard)*
- Tubing disconnect at the infusion site on Neria™ Guard and Neria™ Soft
- Standard luer-lock connection
Watch the demonstration video
Follow this simple step-by-step guide when using the Neria™ Guard automatic inserter.
“The Convatec Neria™ Guard infusion set has transformed my insulin delivery experience. Its reliable adhesive and flexible design provide unmatched comfort and security. I feel confident knowing my medication is delivered effectively.”
Dr Emily Carter, Clinical Specialist
“The Convatec Neria™ Guard infusion set has transformed my insulin delivery experience. Its reliable adhesive and flexible design provide unmatched comfort and security. I feel confident knowing my medication is delivered effectively.”
Dr Emily Carter, Clinical Specialist
Techniques
How to select and manage infusion sites
The following guidance can help you find the best places to insert an infusion set and how to rotate the insertion site to minimise any potential skin irritation.(1)(2)
On this page: Techniques Troubleshooting Test your knowledge FAQ’s
Site selection: choosing the right placement
Typical insertion sites are on your lower back, abdomen, hips, buttocks, thigh or upper arm. Consider also cannula length when selecting the optimal insertion site for your patient.
Insertion tips:
- Make sure the site is clean and dry.
- Avoid sites in contact with constrictive clothing, such as a waistband, or other objects that can pull on the infusion set.
- Avoid the navel and surrounding area.
- Do not select a site that is infected, swollen, red, irritated, bruised or bleeding.
- Do not insert in an area with lumps, hard tissue or bumps.
- Do not insert into bone or muscle as this may cause pain, damage the product
and affect medication absorption.
Site rotation: best practices and rotation patterns
It is important to not re-use the same insertion site:
- Use a pattern, such as a clock or snake, to guide the next insertion site placement.
- Choose a site that is at least 2.5 cm away from the previous site.*
- Leave the site to rest and do not re-use until the skin has healed.
Remember, the above rotation pattern is an example only. Consult local guidelines
and select the rotation pattern that works best for the individual patient.
*IEADSG Guidelines: Insulin Storage and Optimisation of Injection Technique in Diabetes Management, Diabetes Therapy, (2019) 10:341-366
Site management: managing infusion over time
- Remember to visually inspect the infusion set and site several times each day.
- Follow recommended hygiene procedures and ensure the site remains clean and dry.
- Change the infusion set as per drug indication.
- Do not use any creams, oils or perfumes on the site.
- Gently massage the site after use.
- If nodules occur, consider ultrasound treatment. (Henriksen, Tove, and Harry Staines. “Continuous Subcutaneous Apomorphine Infusion in Parkinson's Disease: A Single- Center, Long-Term Follow-Up Study of the Causes for iscontinuation.” Journal of personalized medicine vol. 11,6 525. 8 Jun. 2021.)
Patient support
Equip your patients with knowledge and confidence
The following guidance can help you explain subcutaneous infusion to patients and answer their most common questions.
On this page: Everyday situations Common questions
Wearing an infusion set doesn’t have to hold your patients back, but it’s important to take precautions to avoid issues like dislodgement or skin irritation.
Avoid placing the infusion set in a high friction area or in an area with repeated muscle movements. Sweat, movement or impact may dislodge the set or cause irritation.
It’s generally safe and beneficial to stay as active as possible but always make recommendations based on the specific needs of the patient and as assessed by the healthcare professional.
Neria™Guard and Neria™Soft allow for disconnection of the tubing and pump, prior to taking a bath or shower.
Patients can shower and bathe while wearing the infusion set. However, If the adhesive tape becomes loose, change to a new product and a new site. Check the insertion site frequently to ensure that the soft cannula or needle remain firmly in place. If it is not in place, change to a new product and a new site.
Disconnect the infusion pump and tubing (for Neria™ Guard and Neria™ Soft only) before taking a bath or shower and make sure to check the site before reconnecting.
When choosing an infusion set, consider the patient’s activity level. An infusion set with a disconnect option at site makes it easier for the patient to shower and engage in sports. Consider the availability of custom bags for carrying the pump during activities.
The tubes that come with the infusion sets vary in length. Consider which length is most convenient for the patient and offers the right level of mobility.
When travelling, carry infusion sets in hand baggage in case of a delay and remember to carry spare sets.
Before going through security, disconnect the pump and inform security staff about the infusion pump.
Consider the availability of custom bags for carrying the pump during holiday activities such as hiking and cycling.
Knowledge Centre
Download Fact Cards
Video
Placeholder
Placeholder
Subscribe to stay in the know
Newsletter sign up