Intramuscular Injection Instructions

Injection Instructions

Intramuscular Injection Instructions

Use these instructions only if your prescribed medication is directed to be administered by intramuscular injection.

Before you begin Confirm your name, medication, dose, and administration route on the prescription label. If your label or provider directions differ from these instructions, follow your prescription label or contact patient support before using your medication.

Supplies checklist

  • Prescribed medication
  • Sterile syringe and needle
  • Alcohol swabs
  • Bandage or adhesive strip
  • Sharps container

Common intramuscular programs

Invyncible programs that may use intramuscular injection include:

Injection site reference

Use the site recommended by your provider or shown in your prescribed directions.

Clinical illustration showing common intramuscular injection areas including the deltoid, vastus lateralis, and gluteal muscle

Common intramuscular injection areas may include the deltoid, vastus lateralis, or gluteal muscle when appropriate. Use only the site recommended by your provider or listed in your prescription instructions.

1

Wash your hands

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling medication, syringes, or injection supplies.

2

Choose the injection site

Common intramuscular injection sites include the deltoid muscle of the upper arm, vastus lateralis of the outer thigh, and gluteal muscles. Use the site recommended by your provider or shown in your prescribed directions.

3

Clean the area

Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab using a circular motion. Allow the area to air dry before injecting.

4

Prepare the syringe

Draw up the prescribed dose according to your medication instructions. Check for air bubbles and confirm the dose before injection.

5

Administer the injection

Hold the syringe like a dart at a 90-degree angle to the skin. Insert the needle smoothly into the muscle, then slowly press the plunger to administer the medication.

6

Remove the needle and apply pressure

Withdraw the needle at the same angle it entered. Apply gentle pressure with clean gauze or a bandage if needed.

7

Dispose of supplies safely

Place used needles and syringes into a puncture-resistant sharps container. Do not throw loose needles directly into household trash.

8

Monitor after injection

Monitor for unusual pain, swelling, rash, dizziness, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms. Seek medical attention for severe or urgent symptoms.

Need help?

If you are unsure whether your medication should be injected intramuscularly, or if you have questions about your dose or supplies, contact patient support before using your medication.

Contact Support