How to give your injection.
Follow the five written steps below at your own pace. Take your time. There’s no rush on your first one.
For patients on injectable GLP-1 (semaglutide or tirzepatide).
By Justin Blankenship, Founder · Last updated October 30, 2026
The injection video is on its way.
For now, follow the five written steps below, or jump straight to any step from the list.
Always follow your provider's prescribed dose. This guide shows general technique only. Your dose, schedule, and syringe come from your prescription.
Follow along
Five steps, at your own pace
Step 1
Gather your supplies
Your medication, a new syringe, two alcohol pads, and a sharps container. Set them out on a clean, dry surface in good light.
Step 2
Wash up and clean the vial
Wash and dry your hands. Wipe the rubber top of the vial with an alcohol pad and let it dry. Check the liquid is clear before you go on.
Step 3 · Most important
Measure your exact dose
Draw up exactly the amount on your prescription, holding the syringe at eye level to read it. If you're unsure about the amount, stop and message your care team before you inject.
Units or mL? Check both match.
Syringes can be marked in units or in mL. Your instructions and your syringe must use the same one. A mix-up between them is one of the easiest dosing mistakes to make.
Step 4
Give the injection
Clean the skin and let it dry. Gently pinch a fold of skin, insert the needle the way your instructions show, and press the plunger slowly. Breathe out as you go. Remove the needle and let go of the skin.
Step 5
Dispose of it and write it down
Put the syringe straight into a sharps container, or a heavy-duty plastic bottle with a screw-on lid. Don't recap it. Then note the date and the area you used, so next week you can rotate.
Nervous about your first one? That's normal.
Plenty of people have never given themselves a shot before. A few things that help:
- Give yourself extra timeSit somewhere comfortable and set aside 15 quiet minutes.
- Have someone with youA friend or family member can read the steps aloud while you go.
- Do it with supportAsk your care team about a video visit so a professional can walk you through it.
Common questions
Don't see yours? Your care team is a message away.
More guides for your first month
Checklist
Your first injection, step by step
Package check, storage, injection areas, and when to reach out.
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 →