How-To

Subcutaneous injections at home: the basics

An overview of small at-home injections under the skin, storage and needle disposal. Always follow your provider's and pharmacy's instructions first.

Published October 25, 20261 min readReviewed for clarity by the Awesentials teamEducational, not medical advice

Some prescription programs use small injections under the skin, called subcutaneous injections. This is a general overview only. Your provider's prescription and the pharmacy's written instructions always come first.

What subcutaneous means

A subcutaneous injection goes into the fatty layer just under the skin, not into muscle. Common sites include the abdomen (at least 2 inches from the navel), the outer upper thighs and the upper arms. Your provider or pharmacy will tell you which sites to use.

General good habits

• Wash your hands and clean the site as your instructions describe.
• Use a new needle every time and never share needles or medication.
• Rotate sites so the same spot is not used again and again.
• Check the vial label, strength and expiration date before each use.

Storage

Store medication exactly as the pharmacy label says. Many injectables are kept in the refrigerator after opening. Do not freeze unless told to, and keep medication away from children and pets.

Safe disposal

Put used needles and syringes in an FDA-cleared sharps container or a heavy-duty household container as described by the FDA, and follow your local disposal rules. Never put loose needles in household trash or recycling.

When to contact your provider

Message your provider if you see increasing redness, warmth, swelling or discharge at an injection site, or if anything about your instructions is unclear. Call 911 for trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or any severe reaction.