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Injection sites
IM (intramuscular): Ventrogluteal (safest), glutes, outer thigh, deltoid (small volumes). Use 23-25g needle, 1-1.5 inch.
SubQ (subcutaneous): Abdomen, outer thigh. Use 27-30g needle, 0.5 inch. Best for volumes under 0.5ml.
Rotate between 4-6 sites. Never inject inner thigh, calves, or near visible veins.
When something goes wrong
Normal
Soreness for 1-3 days (PIP), small amount of blood, minor bruising, small lump from subQ leak. All resolve on their own.
See a doctor
Swelling worsening after 48h, spreading redness, pain beyond 5 days, fever after injection.
A&E / call 999
Abscess (hard, hot, painful lump), red line tracking from injection site, difficulty breathing. Tell medical staff what you injected. They need to know.