If you've been prescribed Xultophy 100/3.6, one of the first practical questions is which pen needles for Xultophy you should buy. Xultophy is a once-daily combination of insulin degludec and liraglutide in a prefilled pen, and like most prefilled pens, it needs a fresh disposable pen needle attached before each injection. This guide covers which needles fit, how to pick a length and gauge, and how many to keep on hand.
Which Pen Needles Fit Xultophy?
Xultophy is made by Novo Nordisk, and its prefilled pen uses the same standard screw-on needle connection as Novo Nordisk's other prefilled pens. That means NovoFine and NovoFine Plus needles fit, and so do most widely sold "universal" screw-on pen needles, including BD Nano 2nd Gen and BD Ultra-Fine. When in doubt, check that the needle box lists compatibility with Novo Nordisk pens, and confirm with your pharmacist.
Pen needles are generally sold separately from the pen itself, so check your prescription box and plan to buy a supply before you start.
Best Pen Needle Size for Xultophy: Length and Gauge
For most adults, a short needle is enough to reach the fatty tissue under the skin where Xultophy is meant to go. Common choices include:
- 32G 4mm (for example, NovoFine Plus or BD Nano 2nd Gen): the shortest, thinnest common option, and a popular starting point for many people.
- 31G 5mm (for example, BD Ultra-Fine): slightly longer, preferred by some users.
- 32G 6mm or 30G 8mm: longer needles that some people use out of habit or on a provider's advice.
Higher gauge numbers mean thinner needles, which many people find more comfortable. Your healthcare provider can tell you which length is right for your body and injection sites. If you're deciding between short lengths, our guide on 4mm vs 5mm pen needles walks through the trade-offs.
How Many Pen Needles Do You Need for Xultophy?
Xultophy is typically injected once a day, and a new needle should be used for every injection. That works out to roughly:
- About 30 needles per month
- About 90 needles for a three-month supply
- About 365 needles per year
Add a few extras for a dropped or damaged needle, or for travel. A 100-count box covers about three months for most once-daily users, and a 200- or 300-count value pack can lower your price per needle if you prefer to stock up.
Tips for Using Pen Needles With Xultophy
- Use a new needle every time. Reused needles get dull and can bend, clog, or hurt more.
- Do the safety test (priming) as your pen's instructions describe before each injection to make sure the needle is working.
- Remove the needle after each injection. Storing the pen with a needle attached can let air in or let medicine leak out.
- Rotate injection sites within the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm to help avoid lumps under the skin.
- Dispose of used needles in a sharps container or a heavy-duty plastic bottle, following your local rules.
Quick Buying Checklist
- Screw-on needle compatible with Novo Nordisk pens
- Length and gauge your provider recommended (32G 4mm is a common choice)
- Enough for your monthly use plus a small buffer
- Sealed, unexpired boxes from a reliable seller
FAQ
Can I use the same needles I use for Tresiba or Victoza? Yes, those are also Novo Nordisk prefilled pens with the same needle connection. See our Tresiba FlexTouch pen needle guide for more.
Are 4mm needles long enough? For most adults, short needles reach the right layer of tissue. Ask your provider if you have questions about your specific situation.
Do I need a prescription? Rules vary by state and by insurance plan. Many US buyers can purchase pen needles without one.
Where to Buy Pen Needles for Xultophy
Zahrun carries genuine, factory-sealed NovoFine Plus 32G 4mm pen needles and BD Nano 2nd Gen 32G 4mm pen needles, both compatible with the Xultophy pen. You can compare every size and pack in our pen needles collection. Use code WELCOME10 at checkout for 10% off your order.
This article is for general information only. Follow your healthcare provider's instructions for your medication, dose, and injection technique.
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