Patient guide · Weight lossYour first injection, step by step.
What to check when your package arrives, how to store it, where to inject, and when to reach out. Read it once, keep it handy, and remember: your care team is one message away.
For patients on injectable GLP-1 (semaglutide or tirzepatide).
By Justin Blankenship, Founder · Last updated October 30, 2026
Step 1
When your package arrives
Take two minutes to check everything before you open the vial. Tap each item as you go.
If anything looks off, don't use the medication. Message your care team and we'll work it out with the pharmacy for you.
Message your care teamPackage check
0 of 5 done
Something not right? Don't use the medication. Message your care team and the pharmacy will confirm next steps.
Step 2
Store it the way your label says.
Compounded medications can have different storage needs, so your pharmacy label always comes first. Most injectable GLP-1 vials are kept in the refrigerator.
Typical fridge range
36–46°F
2–8°C · unless your label says otherwise
Refrigerate
Keep it in its box on a middle shelf, away from the back wall and the freezer section.
Never freeze it
If your medication has frozen, don't use it, even after it thaws. Message your care team before your next dose.
Keep it from heat and light
Never leave it in a hot car or direct sun. Keep it in the box until you're ready to use it.
Check the date
Your label shows a beyond-use date. Don't use the medication after that date.
Step 3
Where to inject
These injections go just under the skin, into the soft fatty layer. Choose one of three areas, and rotate each week so your skin stays comfortable. Tap an area to see it.
Rotate every weekSwitch areas, or move at least an inch from your last spot.
Skip irritated skinAvoid anywhere bruised, tender, scarred, or red.
Step 4
Your injection-day routine
Pick one day and keep it. The same day each week makes it easier to remember, and your coach can plan check-ins around it.
Pick your injection day
Your day: Wednesday. Set a phone reminder for the same time each week.
- 1
Wash your hands
Soap and warm water, then dry them well.
- 2
Check your dose
Match the amount to your provider's instructions and your pharmacy label. If they don't match, stop and message us.
- 3
Clean the spot
Wipe the skin with an alcohol pad and let it air-dry.
- 4
Give your injection
Follow the technique in your instructions. Watch the video first if it's your first time.
- 5
Dispose of it safely
Put the used syringe straight into a sharps container, or a heavy-duty plastic bottle with a screw-on lid. Never loose in the trash.
- 6
Note how you feel
Jot down the date, the area you used, and anything you notice. Your coach will ask.
Good to know
When to reach out
Some side effects are common in the first weeks and usually ease. You never have to guess on your own, so if something feels off, tell us.
Message your care team
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea that won't settle
- Constipation that lasts more than a few days
- Redness, swelling, or itching at the injection spot that doesn't fade
- A missed dose, or you're not sure about your dose
- Anything that worries you, even if it seems small
Support is available 24/7. Questions about your treatment are answered by a licensed provider.
Message your care teamDon't wait
Call 911 or go to the ER if you have
- Severe stomach pain that won't go away, with or without vomiting
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing
- Shakiness, sweating, confusion, or fainting
- Signs of severe dehydration, like not being able to keep any fluids down
Once you're safe, let your care team know so your provider can review your plan.
You're not doing this alone.
Your care coach
Checks in every two weeks to help with side effects, food, and the habits that make results last.
Your provider
Reviews how you're doing and adjusts your plan. Your first check-in is about a month in.
Your care team
Here around the clock for questions about your treatment, shipping, or billing.
More guides for your first month
Video guide
How to give your injection
Watch it once, then follow along step by step.
Read the guide →
Nutrition
Eating well on GLP-1
Protein, water, smaller meals, and easing nausea.
Read the guide →
Getting started
Your first 30 days: what to expect
Every step, from your health questions to your first check-in.
Read the guide →