How to Take Your GLP-1 Injection (Step-by-Step)

How to Take Your GLP-1 Injection (Step-by-Step)

This guide is for subcutaneous injections (a small injection into the fatty tissue under the skin). Always follow the exact instructions in your Lavena plan and the directions provided with your medication.

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Before you start

1. Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

2. Choose a clean, well-lit area and place your supplies on a clean surface.

3. Gather your supplies (as provided in your kit):

   • Your GLP-1 medication (pen or vial)

   • New needle (if applicable)

   • Alcohol swabs

   • Cotton ball or gauze

   • Sharps container

Step 1: Check your medication

1. Confirm:

   • Correct patient name (if shown)

   • Correct medication

   • Correct dose (per your Lavena instructions)

   • Expiration date

2. Look at the medication:

   • If it looks cloudy, discoloured, or has particles (unless your pharmacy label says it’s normal), do not use it and contact support.

Step 2: Choose an injection site

Common sites:

• Abdomen (at least 2 inches away from the belly button)

• Thigh (front/outer area)

• Upper arm (back of the arm; often easier with help)

Important:

• Rotate sites each week to reduce irritation.

• Avoid areas that are bruised, tender, scarred, hard, or irritated.

Step 3: Clean the skin

1. Wipe the chosen spot with an alcohol swab.

2. Let it air dry completely (don’t blow on it).

Step 4A: If you are using a prefilled pen

1. Remove the pen cap.

2. Attach a new needle (if required by your pen type).

3. If your instructions include priming:

   • Follow the pen directions to prime as instructed.

4. Set your dose exactly as directed.

5. Proceed to Step 5.

Step 4B: If you are using a vial and syringe

1. Remove the vial cap (if present) and wipe the rubber top with an alcohol swab.

2. Pull back the syringe plunger to draw in air equal to your dose.

3. Insert the needle into the vial and push the air in.

4. Turn the vial upside down and draw your prescribed dose.

5. Tap out air bubbles gently and adjust to the exact dose.

6. Proceed to Step 5.

Step 5: Inject the medication

1. Gently pinch the skin at the cleaned site.

2. Insert the needle into the skin at the angle directed for your device:

   • Many subcutaneous injections are given at 90 degrees, but follow your medication instructions.

3. Press the plunger (or pen button) slowly and steadily until the full dose is delivered.

4. If using a pen, keep the needle in place for the recommended time (often 5–10 seconds) to ensure the full dose is delivered.

5. Remove the needle straight out.

Step 6: After the injection

1. Apply gentle pressure with gauze or a cotton ball for a few seconds.

2. Do not rub the injection site.

3. If there’s slight redness or tenderness, that can happen. If you notice significant swelling, warmth, severe pain, or a rash, contact support.

Step 7: Dispose of supplies safely

1. Place the needle/syringe immediately into a FDA-cleared sharps container (or a hard plastic container with a secure lid if instructed by your local guidelines).

2. Do not throw loose needles in household trash.

3. Follow local rules for sharps disposal.

Storage reminders (general)

• Store medication exactly as your pharmacy label states.

• Some medications require refrigeration; some have room-temperature windows.

• Avoid heat, freezing, and direct sunlight.

When to contact your care team

Contact Lavena support if you:

• Miss a dose and aren’t sure what to do

• Accidentally take the wrong dose

• Have persistent vomiting, severe abdominal pain, signs of dehydration, or any concerning symptoms

• Notice an allergic reaction (hives, swelling, trouble breathing) — seek urgent care immediately

Most patients say the injection is easier than expected. If you’re unsure at any step, reach out in your Lavena portal and our team will guide you.