Mounjaro (tirzepatide) has been making waves in the UK as a promising treatment for type 2 diabetes and weight management. This GLP-1 receptor agonist and GIP receptor agonist medication is administered through subcutaneous injections. But where exactly should you inject Mounjaro for optimal results and comfort? Let’s explore some recommended injection sites.
Ideal Injection Sites for Mounjaro
While you can inject Mounjaro almost anywhere on your body, certain areas are generally preferred due to their:
- Accessibility: Easy to reach without bending or twisting excessively.
- Comfort: Less likely to cause discomfort or pain.
- Absorption: Provide adequate absorption of the medication.
Recommended Injection Sites
- Abdomen: Many people find the abdomen to be a convenient and comfortable option. You can inject into the lower abdomen, about two inches from your belly button.
- Thighs: The outer thigh is another common injection site. Aim for the upper outer thigh, about four inches below the hip joint.
- Upper Arm: The back of the upper arm, about four inches from the shoulder, can also be used for injections.
Injecting Mounjaro: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Choose an Injection Site
- Options: Inject into your thigh or stomach (abdomen), at least 5 centimetres from your belly button. If you need assistance, another person can inject into the back of your upper arm.
- Rotation: Change your injection site each week within the same body area.
Step 2: Set the Dose
- Rotate the dose knob until it stops and the icon is visible in the dose window. This represents a full 0.6 ml dose.
Step 3: Insert the Needle
- Insert the needle into your skin.
- Inject the medicine by pushing the dose knob in until it stops and slowly counting to 5. Ensure the icon remains visible in the dose window before removing the needle.
Step 4: Remove the Needle
- Pull the needle out of your skin. A small amount of medicine on the needle tip is normal.
- Verify the dose: Confirm that the 0 icon is visible in the dose window. If not, reinsert the needle and finish the injection. Do not adjust the dose.
Step 5: Care for the Injection Site
- Apply pressure: If you see blood, gently press the injection site with gauze or a cotton ball. Avoid rubbing.
Step 6: Replace the Outer Needle Shield
- Carefully replace the outer needle shield.
Step 7: Dispose of the Needle
- Unscrew the capped needle and place it in a sharps container.
- Avoid storing the pen with the needle attached to prevent leakage, blockage, and air entry. Needles are not included in the pack. Consult your healthcare professional for appropriate needle recommendations.
Step 8: Replace the Pen Cap
- Always store the pen with the pen cap attached.
Proper Storage and Disposal of Mounjaro
Storing Your Mounjaro KwikPen
- Unused Pens:
- Keep unused pens in the refrigerator between 2°C and 8°C.
- Unused pens can be used until the expiration date on the label if stored in the refrigerator.
- Avoid freezing the pen. Discard it if it has been frozen.
- Used Pens:
- After your injection, you can store used pens at room temperature up to 30°C.
- Keep away from heat sources.
- Store pens and needles out of reach of children.
- Dispose of the pen 30 days after first use or after receiving four weekly doses.
Disposing of Mounjaro KwikPen and Pen Needles
- Pen Needles:
- Immediately after use, dispose of pen needles in a sharps disposal container. Do not throw loose needles in household waste.
- Used Pens:
- Once the needle has been removed, dispose of the used pen in your household bin or sharps disposal container.
- Sharps Disposal Containers:
- Do not recycle used sharps disposal containers.
- Consult your healthcare professional, pharmacist, or nurse for proper disposal methods.
Tips for Choosing an Injection Site
- Rotate Injection Sites: To prevent skin irritation and ensure optimal absorption, rotate your injection sites.
- Avoid Scar Tissue: Do not inject into areas with scars, moles, or other skin conditions.
- Use a Clean Technique: Always clean the injection site with alcohol before injecting.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided with your Mounjaro medication.
Key Takeaway
Remember: If you have any concerns or questions about injection sites, consult with your healthcare professional. They can provide personalised guidance based on your individual needs.
By following the instructions and using the right technique, you can confidently administer Mounjaro injections and maximise the benefits of this medication.
References
Burger, L. (2024) Britain sees launch of Lilly’s weight-loss drug Mounjaro, Reuters.com. Available at: https://www.reuters.com/business/healthcare-pharmaceuticals/britain-sees-launch-lillys-weight-loss-drug-mounjaro-2024-02-14/
Eli Lilly and Company Limited (2024) Mounjaro, INN-tirzepatide, Org.uk. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/usermanual.15481.pdf.
Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (2024) Four-dose Mounjaro “KwikPen” approved by MHRA for diabetes and weight management, Gov.uk. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/four-dose-mounjaro-kwikpen-approved-by-mhra-for-diabetes-and-weight-management
Jastreboff, A. M. et al. (2022) “Tirzepatide once weekly for the treatment of obesity,” The New England journal of medicine, 387(3), pp. 205–216. doi: 10.1056/nejmoa2206038.
