OXO redesigns the syringe 17 Jun 2009

Most syringes are designed for experts, rather than patients - and that makes self-administered shots all the more tricky (particularly for those with, say, rheumatoid arthritis). So OXO -- better known for its ergonomics kitchenware - teamed up with UCB, a pharmaceutical company, to design a syringe that's as safe and easy-to-use as possible.

According to Fast Company, key features include:

• Finger holds that are wide, easy to grip and made of soft, non-slip rubber
• Needle cover with a rounded finger loop for easy removal (and a flared edge that reduces accidental needle pricks when the syringe is re-capped)
• A plunger with a big, easy-to-push thumb pad
• A magnified barrel that makes dosages easier to read, and helps patients know when they've injected the entire dose
• An elliptical barrel (as opposed to a cylindrical one) that makes it easier to grip, and less likely to slip
• Packaging that's easy to open, including Velcro tabs, plastic housing with large finger wells, and instructions accompanied by clear visuals