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How-To Guide
for Self-Injections

Welcome to our self-injection guide. Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions for safely and effectively administering subcutaneous (SubQ) injections for tirzepatide and semaglutide, as well as intramuscular (IM) injections for vitamins like Vitamin D. Self-injection may seem intimidating at first, but with practice, you can feel confident and comfortable.

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Before you begin, make sure you have the following items ready:

 

• Medication vial (tirzepatide, semaglutide, Vitamin D, or other vitamins)

• Syringe and needle (appropriate gauge for SubQ or IM injection)

• Alcohol swabs

• Sharps disposal container

• Clean cotton ball or gauze

• Adhesive bandage (optional)

 

Important: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before starting. If you have questions about your medication or how to inject it, consult with your healthcare provider.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Subcutaneous Injections

1. Prepare Your Injection

 

  • Choose the injection site: Common sites for subcutaneous injections include the abdomen, thigh, or back of the upper arm. Rotate sites with each injection to avoid irritation.

  • Clean the area: Use an alcohol swab to clean the skin at your chosen site. Let it dry completely.

 

2. Draw the Medication

 

  • Check the medication: Ensure the liquid is clear and free from particles or discoloration. Do not use if the medication appears cloudy or contains particles.

  • Prepare the syringe: Remove the cap from the needle. Insert the needle into the vial and draw up the prescribed amount of medication.

  • Remove air bubbles: Tap the syringe gently to bring air bubbles to the top, then push the plunger slowly to expel them.

 

3. Administer the Injection

 

  • Pinch the skin: Gently pinch the skin at the cleaned injection site.

  • Insert the needle: Hold the syringe at a 45-90 degree angle. Quickly insert the needle into the pinched skin.

  • Inject the medication: Push the plunger down steadily to inject the medication.

  • Withdraw the needle: Remove the needle and release the pinched skin. Dispose of the needle in a sharps container.

 

4. Post-Injection Care

 

Apply pressure: Use a clean cotton ball or gauze to apply pressure to the injection site for a few seconds.

Dispose of materials: Place the used needle and syringe in a sharps container. Do not reuse needles.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Intramuscular Injections

1. Prepare Your Injection

 

  • Choose the injection site: IM injections are typically given in the upper outer thigh, upper arm (deltoid muscle), or buttock (gluteal muscle). Rotate sites to prevent soreness.

  • Clean the area: Use an alcohol swab to clean the skin at your chosen site. Let it dry completely.

 

2. Draw the Medication

 

  • Check the medication: Ensure the liquid is clear and without particles. Do not use if the liquid is discolored or cloudy.

  • Prepare the syringe: Insert the needle into the vial and draw up the prescribed amount of medication.

  • Remove air bubbles: Tap the syringe to bring any air bubbles to the top and push them out with the plunger.

 

3. Administer the Injection

 

  • Stretch the skin: With your free hand, stretch the skin at the injection site.

  • Insert the needle: Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the muscle.

  • Inject the medication: Push the plunger down steadily to administer the medication.

  • Withdraw the needle: Pull the needle out quickly and dispose of it in a sharps container.

 

4. Post-Injection Care

 

Apply pressure: Use a cotton ball or gauze to apply pressure if there is any bleeding.

Dispose of materials: Discard the needle and syringe into a sharps container. Never reuse or share needles.

Safety Guidelines &
Best Practices

  • Rotate injection sites: Repeated injections in the same site can cause scarring or discomfort. Rotate locations to promote healing.

  • Use a new needle for each injection: Reusing needles can increase the risk of infection and needle dullness.

  • Proper disposal: Always use a sharps container for disposing of used needles. Never throw needles directly into the trash.

  • Monitor for reactions: After injecting, watch for any signs of allergic reaction, including swelling, redness, or itching at the injection site. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms.

FAQs

  1. How do I know if I injected correctly?
    If the medication went in without significant pain or resistance, you likely did it correctly. A small bruise or soreness afterward is normal.
     

  2. What if I see blood after the injection?
    A small amount of bleeding is common. Apply gentle pressure to the area with a cotton ball or gauze.
     

  3. How should I store my medication?
    Follow the storage instructions on the medication label. Some medications need to be refrigerated while others can be kept at room temperature.

Need Help?

If you have questions or concerns about administering your injection, please reach out to me over text or email. I’m here to help guide you through the process.

 

Disclaimer

This guide is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding medication use and injection techniques.

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