How to Use an Injectable Pen: A Beginner's Guide

A Simple Step-by-Step Guide for Beginners

Injectable pens are commonly used for medications like insulin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, and other self-injected treatments. While they might seem intimidating at first, they’re designed to be safe and easy to use. This guide will walk you through each step—from preparation to injection.

What You’ll Need

• Your medication pen

• A new disposable pen needle

• Alcohol swabs or wipes

• A sharps container (for safe needle disposal)

• Clean hands and a clean surface

1. Wash Your Hands

• Use soap and water to thoroughly clean your hands

• Dry them with a clean towel

• This helps prevent infection

2. Choose & Clean the Injection Site

Where to inject:

• Abdomen: At least 2 inches away from your belly button

• Thighs: Front or outer part of your thigh

• Upper arms: Outer back area (may need assistance)

Tips:

• Use a new area each time (rotate sites)

• Avoid scars, moles, bruises, or irritated skin

• Clean the site with an alcohol swab and let it air dry

3. Attach the Needle

• Remove the pen cap

• Peel off the seal from a new needle

• Screw or push the needle onto the pen (depends on brand)

• Remove the outer cap (keep it!)

• Remove and discard the inner cap

4. Prime the Pen

Priming removes air and ensures your pen is working properly.

• Turn the dial to 1–2 units

• Hold the pen needle up

• Gently tap the pen to move air bubbles to the top

• Press the button to release a drop of medication

• If no drop appears, repeat the priming step (max 3 times)

5. Set the Correct Dose

• Turn the dose dial to your prescribed amount

• Double-check the number in the dose window

6. Inject the Medication

• Hold the pen at a 90° angle (or 45° if you're very lean)

• Insert the needle into the skin in one smooth motion

• Press and hold the button until the full dose is delivered

• Keep the needle in place for 5–10 seconds before removing

7. Remove the Needle & Dispose

• Pull the pen away from your skin

• Carefully place the outer needle cap back on

• Unscrew the needle and place it in your sharps container

• Never reuse needles—they become blunt and risk infection

8. Store the Pen Properly

• Recap the pen

• Follow the storage instructions in your medication leaflet

  • Some pens require refrigeration

  • Some pens are stored at room temperature (check label)

Quick Tips

• ✔️ Rotate sites to avoid skin thickening or bruising

• ✔️ Don’t skip priming, especially with a new pen or needle

• ✔️ Use a timer or set reminders to stay consistent with your schedule

• ✔️ Contact your nurse or pharmacist if you’re unsure about anything

💬 Final Word

Learning to use an injectable pen is a big step—and you're not alone. With practice, this will become a smooth and simple part of your routine. If you’re ever in doubt, ask your healthcare provider to walk you through the process in person.

You’ve got this!