Subcutaneous Administration Overview

Subcutaneous (abbreviated "subQ" or "SC") means "under the skin." A subcutaneous injection delivers medication into the fatty tissue layer between the skin and muscle. This route is commonly used for many types of medications, including peptides, insulin, and certain vaccines.

The subcutaneous layer has a good blood supply, which allows for steady, gradual absorption of medications into the bloodstream. This makes it ideal for peptides and other compounds that benefit from sustained release.

Areas with adequate subcutaneous fat are preferred for subQ injections. Common sites include:

• •Abdomen: Most common site. At least 2 inches away from the navel
• •Outer thigh: Front and outer area of the upper leg
• •Upper arm: Back or side of the upper arm (often requires assistance)
• •Lower back: Love handle area (often requires assistance)

Site rotation: It's important to rotate injection sites to prevent tissue damage, scarring, or lipohypertrophy (fatty lumps). Your healthcare provider will teach you a rotation schedule.

Peptides are often administered subcutaneously because:

• •Better bioavailability: Many peptides are broken down by digestive enzymes if taken orally
• •Controlled absorption: SubQ allows for steady, sustained release into the bloodstream
• •Self-administration: Easier to perform at home compared to intramuscular or intravenous routes
• •Reduced discomfort: Typically less painful than intramuscular injections

Proper sterile technique is critical to prevent infections. Key concepts include:

• •Hand hygiene: Thorough hand washing before handling supplies
• •Alcohol swabs: Cleaning the injection site and vial tops before each use
• •Single-use needles: Never reusing needles or syringes
• •Clean workspace: Using a clean, dry surface for preparation
• •Proper disposal: Immediately placing used needles in a sharps container

Your healthcare provider will demonstrate the full sterile technique process during training.

Typical supplies for subcutaneous peptide administration:

• •Insulin syringes: Common sizes are 0.3mL, 0.5mL, or 1mL with short needles (typically 28-31 gauge, 5-8mm length)
• •Alcohol swabs: For cleaning injection sites and vial tops
• •Bacteriostatic water: Common diluent for reconstituting lyophilized peptides
• •Sharps container: FDA-approved container for safe needle disposal

Your healthcare provider or pharmacy will specify exactly which supplies you need for your specific medication.

Subcutaneous injections are typically administered at specific angles based on needle length and body composition:

• •45-degree angle: Often used for longer needles or in individuals with less subcutaneous fat
• •90-degree angle: Commonly used with short insulin needles in areas with adequate subcutaneous fat

Your healthcare provider will assess your individual anatomy and demonstrate the correct angle for your situation.

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

• !Signs of infection: redness, warmth, swelling, or pus at injection site
• !Persistent pain or bruising that worsens
• !Lumps or hard areas that don't resolve
• !Fever or other systemic symptoms after injection
• !Unexpected reactions or side effects

This overview provides conceptual knowledge only. Before administering any subcutaneous injections:

• →Receive hands-on training: Schedule a demonstration with your healthcare provider or nurse
• →Ask questions: Clarify any doubts about technique, storage, or side effects
• →Follow your prescription: Use only the dose, frequency, and technique prescribed for you

Additional resources:

• → Learn about Storage Practices and Sharps Disposal
• → Use the Reconstitution Calculator
• → Browse the Peptide Library