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September 2, 2025

How to Inject Peptides (Subcutaneous Method)

Important: This guide is for educational purposes only. Proper injection technique is essential for both safety and effectiveness. Most peptide medications are administered via subcutaneous (under the skin) injection, typically once weekly. We've prepared this comprehensive guide to help you understand the process.

Before You Begin: Essential Preparation

Let's ensure that you have everything you need before you begin.

What You'll Need

  • Your GLP peptides
  • Syringe
  • Alcohol swabs or rubbing alcohol with cotton balls
  • Sharps disposal container
  • Clean, well-lit workspace
  • Your injection log or tracking method

Storage and Handling

  • Keep vials refrigerated (36-46°F)
  • Remove from refrigerator approximately 15-30 minutes before injection to reach room temperature

Choosing Your Injection Site

Recommended Areas

Most peptides are given subcutaneously in areas with adequate fatty tissue, such as the following areas:

  1. Abdomen: Most common site - inject at least 2 inches away from your belly button
  2. Thigh: Front and outer areas of the upper thigh
  3. Upper Arm: Back/outer area (may need assistance from someone else)

Step-by-Step Injection Process

Step 1: Preparation

Set up all supplies on a clean, flat surface with good lighting. Wash your hands thoroughly and dry them completely. If your peptide has been refrigerated, allow it to reach room temperature for 10-15 minutes before proceeding. Lastly, ensure your sharps container is within easy reach.

Step 2: Fill the Syringe

  • Clean the rubber stopper on the vial with alcohol
  • Remove the caps from the syringe needle and the plunger
  • Draw air into the syringe equal to your dose amount
  • Insert the syringe needle into the rubber stopper on the vial and inject the air into the vial
  • Turn the vial upside down and slowly draw the medication into the syringe
  • Check for air bubbles and remove by gently tapping the syringe

Step 2: Prepare the Injection Site

  • Choose your injection site and clean it with an alcohol swab
  • Use a circular motion, starting from the center and working outward
  • Let the area air dry completely (don't blow on it or fan it)

Step 3: Administer the Injection

  • Hold the syringe like a pencil at a 90-degree angle to your skin
  • With your other hand, gently pinch about 1-2 inches of skin at the injection site
  • Insert the needle quickly and smoothly into the pinched skin
  • Push the plunger slowly and steadily until all medication is delivered
  • Count to 6-10 seconds before removing the needle (this ensures full delivery)
  • Release the pinched skin and remove the needle straight out at the same angle it went in

Step 4: Post-Injection Care

  • Do not rub the injection site
  • Apply gentle pressure with a clean cotton ball or gauze if there's slight bleeding
  • Dispose of the needle and syringe immediately in your sharps container
  • Record the injection in your log (date, time, site, any reactions)

Important Safety Reminders

  • Never share needles, pens, or medication with others
  • Always use a new, sterile needle for each injection
  • Properly dispose of all sharps in a sharps container

Final Thoughts

Learning to self-administer peptide injections may seem daunting at first, but with proper training and practice, most people become comfortable with the process. The key is following proper technique consistently and maintaining open communication with your healthcare team.