How to Self-Administer a GLP-1 Injection

Learning that GLP-1 is a self administered injection can often be daunting to first-time patients who have no medical experience. And although our GLP-1 prescriptions include detailed instructions on how to administer and an optional one-on-one call with a medical provider, new patients might still find it to be intimidating.

What is GLP-1?

GLP-1 is the active ingredient in the brand name weight loss drugs Wegovy® and Ozempic®. Simply put, GLP-1 is a hunger regulator. It binds to brain receptors to curb your appetite by delaying stomach emptying, leading to increased satiety and helping you feel full for longer.

Even though it’s a relatively newer medication, GLP-1 is wildly popular and widely known, and for good reason. Several studies have proven its effectiveness for weight loss since its approval for chronic weight management in 2021.

One study in particular saw a 14.9% reduction in body weight for its participants who were given 2.4mg of GLP-1 weekly.

How to Inject GLP-1

We provide disposable insulin syringes in your GLP-1 prescription. An insulin syringe has a needle gauge, or thickness, of 31. The higher the gauge the thinner the needle, and the smallest commercially available tip is a 36 gauge, so it is very thin.

It’s also a short needle, only 0.31 inches. But rest assured, this does not affect the accuracy of your dose. The short and thin needle allows for a comfortable and painless injection.

Step 1: Sanitize

Make sure your hands are clean and you are using a new needle.

Step 2: Choose your Site​

Oftentimes, the fattier parts of your stomach, thighs, upper arms, or butt are the least painful and easier sites. Avoid your belly button by at least two inches, and avoid areas that are red, scarred, bruised, or tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Injection

Clean your injection site with an alcohol wipe and let it air dry. Follow your dosage directions to insert the medication into your vial with the amount you need, and remove any air bubbles by gently tapping the syringe then pressing the plunger lightly until they are gone.

Step 4: Time to Inject

Pinch a fold of skin on your injection site with your index finger and thumb. Hold the syringe like a dart with your index finger on the plunger. Insert the needle at a 45-90 degree angle and slowly press the plunger to release the GLP-1. Pull the needle out once all the medication is gone.

Step 5: Aftercare

Dispose of your needle properly in a sharps container. Never reuse a needle. If necessary, apply a bandaid to the injection site.

Step 6: The next injection

Remember to rotate injection sites regularly to avoid irritation, skin issues, and figure out which sites feel more comfortable for you.

Experience GLP-1 with Peaks

Our monthly GLP-1 program is catered to your medical history, weight loss goals, and lifestyle. When combined with a healthy diet and exercise, your results can be maintained for longer.

Feel free to reach out to our team at Peaks with any questions, doubts, or concerns regarding GLP-1 or any of our medication options at any time. As always, our process is 100% online and shipping is always free and discreet.