Verify the prescription label and confirm the dose and expiration date
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
Gather the syringe, needle, alcohol swab, gauze or cotton ball, and sharps container
Check the medication for cloudiness, particles, or damage; do not use if it looks abnormal
Clean the vial stopper with an alcohol swab and let it dry
Draw air into the syringe equal to the prescribed dose
Insert the needle into the vial and inject the air into the vial
Turn the vial upside down and withdraw the prescribed dose into the syringe
Tap the syringe gently to move air bubbles to the top
Push the plunger slightly to remove air bubbles and recheck the dose
Choose an injection site on the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm as directed
Rotate injection sites each time
Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry
Pinch the skin if needed
Insert the needle under the skin at the angle directed by your clinician
Push the plunger slowly and steadily until all medication is injected
Remove the needle from the skin
Apply gentle pressure with gauze or cotton if needed
Do not rub the injection site
Dispose of the syringe and needle immediately in a sharps container
Follow your prescriber’s instructions for missed doses and storage
Contact your pharmacist or clinician if you are unsure about the dose or injection technique