Let’s Talk Injections

A subcutaneous (SQ) injection delivers medication into the fatty layer just beneath the skin, allowing for slow and steady absorption into the bloodstream. These injections are commonly used for medications like insulin, weight loss treatments (Semaglutide, Liraglutide, Tirzepatide), and other wellness therapies.

While current commercial therapies come in a prefilled syringe and compounded medication comes in a vial, both injections are given subcutaneously.

For Zepbound, please see the injection instructions HERE.

For Mounjaro, please see the injection instructions HERE.

For Wegovy, please see the injection instructions HERE.

For Ozempic, please see the injection instructions HERE.

For compounded semaglutide, liraglutide or tirzepatide injections, follow our comprehensive injection guide below. For any questions or concerns, your provider will be happy to help guide you through the injection process.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

  • Insulin Syringes
    • These will be provided in the box with your medication shipment
  • Medication vial
  • Alcohol swab
  • Sharps Container
    • Your first order of injectables will come with a sharps container
    • Please see options for sharps containers (including making your own) HERE.

Find a clean, well-lit area to prepare your injection. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

Step 2: Choosing An Injection Site

Your injection should be given subcutaneously (under the skin), NOT into a muscle or vein. Recommended injection sites include:

  • Abdomen (at least 2 inches away from the belly button)
  • Thighs (outer area of the upper thigh)
  • Upper arm (back or side of the arm)

It’s important to rotate injection sites instead of injecting in the same spot each time to avoid any irritation.

Step 3: Preparing Your Injection

1

Clean the vial – Wipe the rubber stopper with an alcohol swab and let it dry.

2

Prepare the syringe – Remove the cap and pull back the plunger to the dose (in units) prescribed by your provider.

3

Draw up the medication: Insert the needle straight into the vial through the rubber stopper and push the air from the syringe into the vial. Turn the vial upside down and slowly pull back the plunger to fill the syringe with the correct unit dose. Keep your needle tip into the vial solution to avoid pulling up any air. Double-check your dose and remove the needle from the vial.

Step 4: Administering the Injection

1

Clean the injection site – Use an alcohol swab to disinfect the area and let it dry.

2

Pinch the skin – Gently pinch a small area of fat at the injection site.

3

Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle

4

Inject the medication – Slowly push the syringe plunger down until all medication is injected.

5

Remove the needle and dispose of it in your sharps container. No need to rub the injection site.

FAQs: Common Questions About Injections

❓ Does the injection hurt?
➡️ Most patients feel a slight pinch, but it’s quick and mild. Using a fresh, fine-gauge needle can help minimize discomfort.

❓ How often do I need to inject my medication?
➡️ Your provider will tell you how often to inject (e.g., once a week for weight loss medications like Semaglutide or Tirzepatide).

❓ Can I reuse my insulin syringe or pen needle?
➡️ No! Always use a new, sterile needle for each injection to prevent infection and ensure proper dosing.

❓ What if I injected the wrong dose?
➡️ If you think you made a mistake, don’t take another dose right away. Contact your provider for guidance.

❓ What if I missed a dose?
➡️ Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and do not double up.