Before You Start

Gather your supplies:

Your tirzepatide vial or pre-filled syringe
Alcohol swabs
Insulin syringe (if using vials)
Sharps container for disposal
Cotton ball or gauze (optional)

Temperature check: If medication was refrigerated, let it sit at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before injecting. Cold medication can cause more discomfort.

Inspect the medication: The liquid should be clear and colorless. Don't use if it's cloudy, discolored, or contains particles.

Step-by-Step Process

STEP 1: WASH HANDS

Wash thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Dry with a clean towel.

STEP 2: SELECT INJECTION SITE

Choose one of these areas:

Abdomen: 2+ inches away from belly button (most common)
Thigh: Front or outer area, middle third
Upper arm: Back of upper arm (may need help)

Rotate sites weekly. Don't inject into the same exact spot.

STEP 3: CLEAN THE SITE

Use an alcohol swab in a circular motion, moving outward. Let it air dry completely (about 30 seconds). Don't blow on it.

STEP 4: PREPARE THE INJECTION

If using a vial:

Clean vial top with alcohol
Draw correct dose into syringe
Remove air bubbles (tap syringe, push plunger slightly)

If using pre-filled syringe: Follow manufacturer instructions for activation.

STEP 5: PINCH AND INSERT

Gently pinch the cleaned skin area. Insert needle at 45-90 degree angle (90 degrees for most users with adequate subcutaneous fat). Insert fully and smoothly—don't jab.

STEP 6: INJECT

Release the pinch. Push the plunger slowly and steadily. Count to 10 after full injection before removing needle. This ensures full dose delivery.

STEP 7: REMOVE AND DISPOSE

Pull needle out at the same angle you inserted. Apply gentle pressure with cotton ball if needed. Place used needle immediately in sharps container—never recap.

Tips for Comfort

Room temperature medication: Cold injections sting more.
Relax the muscle: Tension makes it hurt more.
Don't hesitate: A quick, confident insertion is less painful than slow entry.
Breathe: Exhale as you inject.
Distract yourself: Watch something on your phone during the process.

REALITY CHECK

The needle is small (typically 30-31 gauge). Most people are surprised how little they feel. After 2-3 weeks, it becomes routine—like brushing teeth.

What to Expect After

Normal:

Small red mark at injection site
Minor bruising occasionally
Slight itching at the site
A small bump that resolves within hours

Contact support if:

Significant swelling or redness
Signs of infection (warmth, spreading redness, pus)
Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing)

How to Inject Tirzepatide