How to Self-Administer Semaglutide or Tirzepatide: A Step-by-Step Guide
At Lovely Wellness Clinic, we are dedicated to empowering you with the knowledge and tools for your health journey. Administering your own medication might seem intimidating at first, but with guidance from your knowledgeable healthcare provider and/or pharmacist, it can seamlessly become a part of your wellness regimen.
This guide will walk you through the process of self-administering a subcutaneous injection of Semaglutide or Tirzepatide.
Step 1: Prepare
- Thoroughly Wash Your Hands: Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water.
- Gather Supplies: Gather the items you need in a clean environment: your prescription GLP-1 multi-dose vial, an insulin syringe, alcohol wipes, and a sharps disposal container.
- Inspect the Medication: Check the medication vial for any particles or discoloration. If you notice anything unusual, do not use it and contact your pharmacy immediately.
- Disinfect the Vial: Remove the seal from the top of the vial and clean the top with an alcohol wipe. Make sure not to touch the top of the vial after this step.
- Prep the Syringe: Remove the orange caps from both ends of the insulin syringe.
- Fill the Syringe with Air: Pull back the plunger to the required dose mark, filling the syringe with air.
Step 2: Draw Up the Medication
- Inject Air into the Vial: Hold the syringe like a pen and insert the needle into the center of the rubber part of the top of the vial. Push the air into the vial to decrease resistance.
- Draw Up the Medication: Turn the vial and syringe upside down, holding them up in front of you. Making sure to keep the needle tip inside the vial, pull the plunger back slightly past the required dose. Then push the excess medication back into the vial until you reach the exact dose. This helps eliminate any air bubbles.
- Remove Air Bubbles: If you see any bubbles, gently tap the syringe to remove them.
Reading Insulin Syringe Measurements: Each small dash mark on the syringe represents 1 unit. The syringes are typically marked in increments of 5 units (5, 10, 15, 20, etc.). Remember, units are different from milligrams or milliliters; use units for dosing.
Step 3: Administer Your Medication
- Choose an Injection Site: The most common sites are the abdomen and the upper outer thigh. If injecting your abdomen, inject at least two inches away from your belly button.
- Disinfect the Site: Clean the injection site with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry.
- Pinch the Skin: Pinch above and below the injection site (making sure not to touch the clean area) to create a firm surface.
- Inject the Medication: Hold the syringe at a 45-degree angle and insert the needle into the skin. Use a steady pressure to push the plunger until the medication is fully injected.
- Remove the Syringe: Gently withdraw the syringe and carefully replace the needle cap using a sweeping motion with one hand.
- Dispose of the Syringe: Place the capped syringe in a sharps container. Do not dispose of it in regular trash.
Sharps Disposal Tips:
- You can purchase a sharps container online or at your local pharmacy.
- According to the CDC, alternative sharps disposal containers should meet OSHA requirements. Suitable alternatives include heavy-duty plastic containers, such as empty laundry detergent, windshield wiper fluid, cat litter, or bleach containers that have been thoroughly rinsed.
Step 4: Store the Vial
After administering your injection, return the medication vial to the refrigerator for future use.
By following these steps, you now can self-administer your Semaglutide or Tirzepatide injections with confidence. If you have any questions or concerns, our clinic is here to support you every step of the way.
Disclaimer
Directions for administering your medication may vary. Always follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or the pharmacy dispensing your medication. If you have any further questions, please consult your healthcare provider.
