How do I inject weight loss medication?
Vials (Weight loss medication, Vitamin B12):
- See this link or video for tips on how to give yourself a weight loss subcutaneous (SQ) injection:
- Video on how to get the last few drops out of the vial (useful for last shot of the month).
Pre-filled syringes:
- See this video for tips on how to give yourself a weight loss subcutaneous (SQ) injection
For Lipo injections, please review this video. Lipo injections are given intramuscular which is different than GLP-1 subcutaneous (SQ) injections.
What will I get after I place an order?
A package mailed from the pharmacy or clinic with your medication, syringes to inject the medication, alcohol swabs to clean the medication top and your skin, and a sharps container.
- It can take up to 7 business days for the medication to arrive.
- It will be carefully packed in an insulated shipping container with ice packs. It is typical for the ice to melt during transit, and the packs may not be cold.
- Please place your medication in the refrigerator immediately after receiving it.
- The medication will not be compromised in safety, potency, or effectiveness if it arrives warm.
Why is there so little medicine in the vial?
The vials contain a very small amount of fluid – often, just 1 milliliter (ml). This is less than 1/4 teaspoon. 1 milliliter is equivalent to 100 units on the syringes you received. Please pay careful attention to the instructions on dosing. Please call, text, or email us if you have any questions.
GLP-1 Medication Vial
How often is GLP-1 medication administered?
Either daily or once a week, any time of day, with or without food. Please read the instructions closely
Multi-Month Orders
Most orders will be shipped monthly. You will receive a package approximately every 4 weeks. See this video for more information. If you receive more than one vial, start with the lowest number in milliliters (ml) first.
What should I expect after starting weight loss medication?
After eating, you will likely feel more full than usual. We recommend eating to about 80% fullness to minimize side effects. It often takes 2-3 days to feel the first dose.
How soon can I expect to lose weight?
This varies by individual but often takes two to three months.
Will the injection hurt?
The injection is a tiny needle that goes underneath your skin (subcutaneous) in your belly or upper thigh. There is typically minimal to no discomfort. For diabetics, it is the same process as injecting insulin.
How do I dose the drug?
Follow the instructions on the label. You will inject a certain number of units that are measure on the syringe. Please note this do not correspond to the milligrams of drug injected. This depends on the concentration of the medication. Please contact your provider if you wish to know the milligram amount you are taking. More information about concentration, units, and milligrams.
How do I store the vial?
The vial should be stored in a household refrigerator between 36 degrees F and 46 degrees F.
How long does the vial last?
Please read the instructions. Some medication comes in single use vials – meaning the vial must be disposed after one use. Some medication allows for multiple doses but must be discarded after 28 days beyond the first use.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose of medication and the next scheduled dose is more than 2 days away (48 hours), take the missed dose as soon as possible.
If you miss a dose of medication and the next scheduled dose is less than 2 days away (48 hours), do not administer the dose. Take your next dose on the regularly scheduled day.
If you miss doses of medication for more than 2 weeks, take your next dose on the regularly scheduled day or email us to talk about how to restart your treatment.
Can I travel with weight loss medication?
Once the vial is used, it must be stored in a refrigerator. You can wrap the medication in ice packs and store in a small cooler for up to 24 hours. More information at this link.
What if the drug is not refrigerated?
If a vial that has been used/punctured is left at room temperature for more than 4 hours it should be discarded. Do not expose the vial to direct sunlight. Unopened vials are stable at room temperature up to 7 days.
What if I lose the vial, spill the medication, or it goes bad?
Contact us for a replacement vial. Because the medication is costly, there will be a fee for replacement.
What if I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant?
Pregnant patients should not take GLP-1 medication. It is advisable to not use weight loss medication if you’re trying to become pregnant. Stop immediately if you become pregnant. If you are on oral birth control, weight loss medication can decrease the effectiveness. You should use a barrier method of contraception for the first 4 weeks after starting the medication and 4 weeks after each dose increase.
What about potential side effects?
What if I have more questions?
Please reach out to us! We are here to help you on your wellness journey.
Learn more:
Understanding Medication Dosage: Concentration, Quantity, and Units Injected
This blog post is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. GLP-1 weight loss medication may only be obtained with a prescription from a licensed health care provider. If your prescriber determines GLP-1 medication is right for you, obtaining a prescription is hassle-free through Flow Wellness. Compounded drugs are not FDA-approved and do not undergo safety, effectiveness, or manufacturing review.
