Ivím Health GLP-1 Medication
Injection Instructions

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This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to inject and administer subcutaneous injections for GLP-1 medications. Whether you're wondering where to inject your medication in your thigh or abdomen, we've got you covered.

We'll walk you through the entire process, from preparing your medication to selecting the right injection site and using proper technique. You'll learn about dosing protocols, best practices for rotating injection sites, and tips for minimizing discomfort.

Our goal is to ensure you feel confident and comfortable with your GLP-1 medication regimen, whether you're new to these treatments or looking to refine your injection technique. Remember, while these instructions are thorough, always follow your Ivím Health provider's specific instructions and guidance for your personalized treatment plan.

Step-by-Step GLP-1 injection instruction guide

What's in your package

When you receive your shipment, you should find:

  1. Compounded GLP Medication vial or pen dependent on your prescription
  2. Insulin syringes or injectable pen
  3. Alcohol pads
Woman opening box
Provider on telehealth visit with patient

Before you begin

Check the "Beyond Use Date" (BUD) on your GLP-1 medication vial. This determines how long your medication remains effective:

  • If using an injectable pen, refer to the instructions that are inside your prescription box
  • For syringes, check the unit markings to match the prescribed dosage or in your Ivím Health mobile app
  • It's important to check the date on each medication vial or pen and to not inject any medication beyond the “Beyond Use Date”

1. Wash your hands and prepare the injection site

After washing your hands, choose between two common injection sites:

  • Abdominal fat
  • Front or side of the thigh
  • Clean the chosen area with an alcohol pad and let it dry.
  • Rotate your injection site weekly.
Closeup man's thigh in bathroom
Hands opened vial

2. Prepare the medication

  • Clean the top of the medication vial with a new alcohol pad.
  • Pull the syringe plunger back slightly to draw in a small amount of air.
  • Insert the needle into the vial and inject the air.
  • Invert the vial and withdraw the prescribed required units of medication.
  • Get rid of any air bubbles by tapping the syringe and putting slight pressure on the plunger until a drop of medication appears at the tip of the needle.

3. Prepare the injection site

  • Clean the chosen injection site with alcohol, allow area to dry
  • Pinch small bulge of tissue
  • Insert needle at a 90 degree angle until the needle is completely submerged
  • Apply gentle pressure on the syringe
  • Immediately remove the needle
  • Apply gentle pressure to the injection site with a cotton ball if any bleeding occurs
Hands pinching skin

GLP-1 medication
injection tips

Woman injecting medication

How to inject GLP-1 medications:

For injectable pens, always refer to the instructions provided in your prescription box to ensure you're following proper injection instructions. Follow the steps above for medication vials, and rotate injection sites weekly, usually in the abdomen or thigh.

Injection instructions for GLP-1 medications in the abdomen:

For abdominal injections of your GLP-1 medication, choose a spot in the soft, fatty tissue at least 2 inches from your navel. Clean the area, pinch the skin, insert the needle at a 90-degree angle, and slowly inject the medication, rotating sites with each dose. For injectable pens, follow the injection guidelines provided in your prescription box.

Injection instructions for GLP-1 medications in the thigh:

When injecting in the thigh, select the front or outer area of your thigh. Aim for the middle third of the thigh, staying at least 4 inches above the knee and 4 inches below the hip. Avoid any areas with visible veins, scars, or bruises. Clean the chosen spot, pinch a fold of skin, and inject at a 90-degree angle. Remember to rotate injection sites between thighs and abdomen weekly. However, if you are prescribed an injectable pen, follow the injection instructions provided in your prescription box.

GLP-1 medication injection technique video:

For visual guidance on how to inject your GLP-1 medication, view our injection instructional video above. This video provides a step-by-step guide to ensure you’re using the correct technique.

For most GLP-1 medications the injection process remains similar. Always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions for dosing and administration.

Need Help Injecting Your Medication?

If you have questions about your GLP-1 injections, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider or support@ivimhealth.com. We're here to support you on your weight loss journey.

Need Help Injecting Your Medication?

If you have questions about your GLP-1 injections, don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider or support@ivimhealth.com. We're here to support you on your weight loss journey.

Woman injecting medication

GLP-1 medications injection FAQs

GLP-1 medications belong to the class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications can help control blood sugar, and suppress appetite. When combined with lifestyle changes, such as diet modifications and regular exercise, can help some patients achieve substantial success in their weight loss journey than diet and exercise alone.

Selecting the ideal GLP-1 medication for weight management, such as Zepbound®, Ozempic®, Wegovy®, and Mounjaro® is a personalized process that hinges on your unique health profile and insurance coverage. These medications can vary in their effectiveness, side effects, and cost depending on individual factors. Your Ivím Health telehealth provider plays a crucial role in this decision-making process, leveraging their expertise to evaluate your specific circumstances and recommend the most suitable GLP-1 option for your weight loss journey. They consider factors like your medical history, current health status, and insurance coverage to tailor a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and lifestyle. With their guidance, you can make an informed choice that optimizes your chances of successful, sustainable weight management.

At present, Ivím Health telehealth services are not covered by insurance, but we offer a comprehensive $74.99 monthly membership that encompasses all our services. We begin with a no-obligation free consultation to discuss your needs and options. While we don't accept insurance for consultations, we do facilitate prior authorizations through commercial prescription drug plans for GLP-1 medications. To determine your insurance coverage eligibility for these medications, it's essential to select the prior authorization option during registration. For those who face insurance denials, lack coverage, or encounter difficulties accessing the medication at local pharmacies, we've developed affordable accessibility programs. These programs start at $125 per month, which is in addition to the $74.99 monthly membership fee. Our goal is to ensure that patients have options, regardless of their insurance status or local pharmacy availability.

Yes! You are able to use your HSA/FSA savings plan to pay for your GLP-1 medication therapy. Ask your Ivím Health online telehealth provider for more information on how to use these benefits when paying for your medication.