How to use a pre-filled peptide pen
Pre-filled pens remove mixing and measuring entirely. Dial, place, press. Here is the whole process for a first-time user.
Before your first dose
- Take the pen out of the fridge 20-30 minutes beforehand - a cold injection stings more
- Check the liquid is clear and free of particles
- Wash your hands and attach a fresh needle
- Have a sharps container ready before you start
Step by step
- Attach a new needle and remove both caps
- Dial your dose using the dial at the end of the pen
- Pinch a fold of skin at your chosen site
- Insert straight in at 90 degrees
- Press and hold the button until the counter returns to zero
- Keep holding for a slow count of ten before withdrawing
- Remove the needle, cap it and drop it in the sharps bin
The ten-second hold is the step most people skip, and it is the reason doses sometimes leak back out of the skin.
Where to inject
| Site | Notes |
|---|---|
| Stomach | Most common. Stay at least 5cm away from the navel |
| Outer thigh | Easy to reach, good alternative site |
| Back of the upper arm | Usually needs another person |
Rotate sites each week so the same patch of tissue is not used repeatedly.
What is normal afterwards
A small red mark, a little itching or a bruise are all common and settle within a day or two. A firm lump that persists usually means the same site has been used too often.
Seek medical advice for spreading redness, a rash, swelling of the face or lips, or difficulty breathing.
Sharps disposal in the UK
Needles must not go in household waste. Most councils provide a free sharps collection or exchange, and many pharmacies accept sealed containers. Search your local council for "sharps disposal" to see which applies where you live.
Frequently asked questions
Does it hurt?
The needles are very short and fine. Most people describe it as a scratch, and letting the pen warm up first makes it noticeably easier.
Do I need to prime the pen?
Follow the instructions supplied with your pen. Some designs prime once before the first use only.
What if I see a drop of liquid afterwards?
A tiny drop is normal. Holding the button for ten seconds before withdrawing prevents most of it.
Can I reuse a needle?
No. A fresh needle each time keeps it sterile and much less painful.
Which time of day is best?
Any time. Pick a day and time you will remember and keep it consistent.
Do I need to reconstitute anything?
No. Our pens arrive pre-filled and ready to use - there is no mixing involved.