How to Use Extended Release in a Needle

Using prescription medications that come with a syringe and needle may be a daunting aspect of treatment. Before you take the medicine home, be sure to talk to your doctor and learn why you are taking the medication and how to take it. Extended release injectable medicines may be given a variety of ways, such as an intramuscular shot deep into the muscle or a subcutaneous injection, into the fat. Each medication is different, however, most slow-release medications are given subcutaneously, or SubQ.

Things You'll Need

• Prescription medication
• Alcohol wipes
• Sterile syringe with needle
• Bandage

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Instructions

• 1

  Ask the doctor how, where and when the needle injection is to be given. Make sure you clarify any concerns about the medication with the doctor and pharmacist, such as how to store the medication properly, before you take it home.

• 2

  Ask the doctor or pharmacist what size needle should be used if you did not receive syringes with needles attached or have multiple choices. Lower gauge numbers mean bigger needles. A 25 gauge or smaller needle is typically used for SubQ injections, whereas a 19 or 20 gauge needle is used for intramuscular shots.

• 3

  Check the medication dose, which will be ordered in milliliters, or ml, to inject. Review the dose, drug name, expiration date, patient and route of administration prior to giving the injection.

• 4

  Find a place to administer the injection. SubQ shots are usually given in the fat of the abdomen or in the backs of the arms. Intramuscular shots enter the muscle tissue, such as the gluteal muscles of your buttocks.

• 5

  Rub the alcohol shot on the location and let it dry naturally. Do not blow or fan it, as this could introduce germs onto the shot site. Administer the shot as instructed and discard the needle and syringe as instructed by your doctor.

• 6

  Apply a clean, dry bandage to the shot site. Contact the doctor if you notice any adverse or unexpected reactions to the medication administration.