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Home » For Patients » Library, Resources & Info » Patient Handouts & Information » Injection Training & Assistance » Subcutaneous Injections
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Hints and Tips for Subcutaneous Injections |
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- You may have some sort of site reactions at the beginning of starting injectable medication. Reactions are caused mainly by the large proteins in the medication. Reactions reduce with improved technique, and as the body gets used to these proteins. Reactions do not reduce the efficacy of the medication.
- Common reactions may include bruising, soreness, redness and itching. Some allergic reactions may also occur such as hives and may require treatment or a change in your medication. If you experience severe reactions such as shortness of breath and it is after business hours, please seek emergency medical care.
- You will be instructed to take your medication between 7-9 pm or if you are taking the medication twice a day you will be instructed to take the medication between 7-9 am and 7-9 pm. It is very important not to miss a dose or take it later than 9 pm.
- Before you start; wash your hands with antibacterial soap.
- Use 27 gauge 1/2" needles for injection of Repronex and Menopur. Use 1cc of diluent (sterile water) to mix each 75 unit of powder medication. 1cc of dilutent (sterile water) can be used to mix up to 6 vials of medication. The total amount injected should not exceed 1cc.
- For Ganirelix or Ovidrel, express air first, then inject.
- If injecting into the abdomen, go an inch below and to the left or right of the navel. “Pinch an Inch” to get to the injection site. Alternate using the left side and the right side of the abdomen each day to prevent soreness.
- Allow the alcohol to dry on the skin before injecting.
- Inject quickly and fully, at a 90-degree angle. This ensures cleaner penetration and reduces chance for reactions. Pull the needle straight out when finished injecting.
- When using Gonal F pen or Follistim pen, be sure to wait 5 seconds after injecting before withdrawing the needle.
- Cold compresses and over the counter cortisone can treat local skin reactions.
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