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Injection Sites
FDA-approved subcutaneous injection sites with tips for rotation
Injection Sites
FDA-approved subcutaneous injection sites with tips for rotation
Abdomen
At least 2 inches (5 cm) away from the navel. The most common site — consistent absorption, easy access.
- • Alternate left and right sides
- • Avoid the area directly around the navel
- • Most subcutaneous tissue available
Thigh (Front)
Front of the thigh, midway between the knee and hip. Good alternative if you prefer more privacy.
- • Use the outer front surface
- • Alternate legs each injection
- • Good for self-injection
Upper Arm (Back)
Back of the upper arm, where there's a fold of fatty tissue. May need assistance from another person.
- • Harder to self-inject
- • Alternate arms
- • Best for someone else to administer
Buttocks (Upper Outer)
Upper outer quadrant of the buttock. Less common but viable, especially for IM injections.
- • Upper outer area only
- • Usually needs assistance
- • More common for IM than subQ
Step-by-Step Technique
- 1Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- 2Check your medication — it should be clear and free of particles.
- 3Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it air dry.
- 4Gently pinch a fold of skin at the injection site.
- 5Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle (or 45 degrees if you have less body fat).
- 6Press the plunger slowly and steadily.
- 7Hold for 5-10 seconds after the dose is fully injected.
- 8Remove the needle at the same angle it went in.
- 9Don't rub the site — apply gentle pressure if there's a drop of blood.
- 10Dispose of the needle in a sharps container.
Site Rotation Schedule
Rotate between sites to prevent lipohypertrophy (lumps under the skin)
Week 1
Abdomen L
Week 2
Abdomen R
Week 3
Left Thigh
Week 4
Right Thigh
Repeat cycle. Use different spots within each region every day.