How do I give myself my medicine?

Administering your medication at home can feel overwhelming at first, but with this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to give yourself a subcutaneous injection with confidence and ease.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Supplies

   • Gather everything you need: the medication, a syringe, and an alcohol swab.
   • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

2. Choose the Injection Site

   • Common areas for subcutaneous injections include the abdomen (at least 2 inches away from the belly button), the front of the thighs, or the back of the upper arms.
   • Avoid injecting into the same exact spot every time to prevent skin irritation. It's fine to stay in the same general area, just rotate the spot slightly.

3. Clean the Area

   • Use an alcohol swab to clean the chosen injection site. Let it air dry for a few seconds.

4. Prepare the Syringe

   • Remove the cap from the needle and draw the prescribed dose of medication into the syringe.
   • Hold the syringe like a pencil, with your dominant hand.

5. Inject the Medication

   • With your other hand, gently pinch the skin around the injection site to create a firm surface (optional but recommended for beginners).
   • Insert the needle at a 45 to 90-degree angle, depending on the injection site and the amount of fatty tissue.
   • Push the plunger down slowly and steadily to inject the medication.

6. Remove the Needle

   • Once all the medication is injected, quickly remove the needle and apply gentle pressure to the injection site with the alcohol swab.

FAQ: Common Questions About Subcutaneous Injections

• Can I inject in the same spot every week?

  • It’s best to rotate your injection sites within the same general area to avoid skin irritation or tissue damage.

• Is it safe to inject in an area where I've had liposuction?

  • Yes, it's safe to inject in an area where you've had liposuction, as long as it’s fully healed.

• What if I've recently had a procedure in the area?

  • Avoid injecting in any area that has recently undergone a medical procedure until it’s fully healed.

• Do I need to pinch the tissue before injecting?

  • Pinching the skin is optional. Some people find it helps stabilize the injection site, especially if they are new to injections.

• What if I accidentally inject at the site of a recent immunization?

  • While it's best to avoid the exact spot of a recent immunization, it’s not a significant concern if it happens accidentally. Just monitor the area for any unusual reactions.

Additional Resources

For a visual guide, watch these helpful videos on how to administer a subcutaneous injection: