How to Safely Self-Administer Injections

Starting self-injections might feel intimidating, but you’ll find it becomes straightforward after a little practice. We’re here to guide you step-by-step so you feel confident and comfortable managing your injections safely. Let’s dive into what you need to know to self-administer subcutaneous injections for peptides and hormones like testosterone.

Why Self-Injections?

Giving yourself injections puts your health directly in your hands, allowing you to maintain your unique dosing schedule with ease and independence. Subcutaneous (SubQ) injections are ideal for direct delivery into fatty tissue, offering a steady release of peptides or hormones. With the right preparation and a little encouragement, self-administering these injections will soon feel natural.

1. Understanding Injection Types

There are a few types of injections you might encounter:

• Premixed (Reconstituted): These peptides arrive in liquid form, ready for injection.
• Lyophilized (Dry Powder): These require you to add a small amount of bacteriostatic water to dissolve the powder, preparing it for injection.

Subcutaneous injections are perfect for peptides and hormones like testosterone. They’re less invasive than intramuscular (IM) injections and use smaller, thinner needles, making them easier and more comfortable to administer.

2. Gather Your Supplies

Before you begin, take a moment to gather everything you need:

• Medication vial: Whether premixed or lyophilized, these are your peptides or testosterone.
• Insulin syringes: These should come with your kit, typically between 27-31 gauge, perfect for SubQ injections.
• Alcohol prep pads: Essential for keeping things clean and sterile.
• Needle clipper or Sharps container: For safe disposal of used needles.

Once everything is in place, you’re ready to start!

3. Understand Your Dosing Instructions

Your instructions might look a bit complex at first, but don’t worry—you’ll quickly get the hang of it.

• Conversions: Insulin syringes measure in cubic centimeters (cc), milliliters (ml), or International Units (IU). Just remember: 1 cc = 1 ml = 100 IU.
• Example Dosing: Let’s say your directions state, “inject 50 units subcutaneously once daily.” That’s 0.5 ml. Another example: if you’re instructed to inject 0.25 ml, that’s 25 units on the syringe.

With these basics down, you’re set to measure your doses with confidence.

4. Administering a Premixed Peptide Injection

Step-by-Step

1. Wash your hands and lay out all your supplies. Being organized helps things go smoothly.
2. Draw the dose:
   • Remove the plastic cap from the vial.
   • Swab the rubber stopper with an alcohol pad to keep it clean.
   • Insert the needle into the stopper, draw the required amount, and gently tap out any air bubbles.
3. Choose an injection site: Great options include your abdomen (at least 2 inches from the belly button), the outer thigh, or upper glute. Clean the site with an alcohol pad and let it dry.
4. Administer the injection:
   • Pinch a small fold of skin at your chosen site.
   • Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, press down on the plunger, and then remove the needle.
   • Gently rub the injection site for 30–60 seconds to minimize any bruising or swelling.

5. Reconstituting and Injecting Lyophilized Peptides

For lyophilized peptides, you’ll need to mix them with bacteriostatic water first:

1. Prepare the solution:
   • Use a larger syringe (5 or 10 cc), attach the needle provided, and draw the required amount of bacteriostatic water.
2. Reconstitute the peptide:
   • Inject the bacteriostatic water into the peptide vial, swirling gently to dissolve—there’s no need to shake.
   • Once mixed, simply follow the same injection steps as for premixed peptides.

6. Injecting Testosterone

Testosterone injections are a bit different due to their thicker consistency, but we’ll walk you through it:

1. Draw and switch needles:
   • Use a larger needle (18–21 gauge) to draw the testosterone, then switch to a smaller needle (23–27 gauge) for the injection.
2. Choose an injection site: Ideal spots for testosterone include the love handle, glute, or thigh. Prepare the site, and follow the same injection steps as with peptides.

You’ve got this! And remember, taking your time is key.

7. Disposal and Storage Tips

1. Safe Disposal: Use a needle clipper or place used needles in a Sharps container for safe, proper disposal.
2. Storage:
   • Peptides: Store premixed or reconstituted peptides in the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
   • Testosterone: Store at room temperature, making it easier to draw up for injections.

You’re on Your Way!

Remember, it’s completely normal to feel a little apprehensive when starting. Many people find that minor bruising or slight welts at the injection site are common and harmless. A warm compress afterward or a gentle massage of the area can help with comfort.

If you ever have questions or would like extra guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to your BLI team. You’re not alone on your journey to health!