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Universal Safety Principles: Overview & General Injection Safety

This section provides core safety guidance for all GLP-1 RA users, no matter how the medication is sourced or administered (except oral tablets). Master these basics before attempting any injection.

General Injection Safety Concepts​

Although the practical steps vary by path, three foundational rules apply to every injection and help prevent infection or injury:

  • Cleanliness (Aseptic Technique): Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Use a brand-new sterile needle and syringe for each shot. Wipe both the vial stopper and your skin with separate alcohol swabs and let each surface air-dry before puncturing or injecting.
  • Injection-Site Rotation: Do not inject into the exact same spot repeatedly. Rotating between areas (abdomen, thighs, upper arms) prevents lumps such as lipohypertrophy and promotes reliable absorption.
  • Safe Sharps Disposal: Place every used needle, syringe, or single-use pen directly into an approved puncture-resistant sharps container. Never toss loose sharps into household trash or recycling. (See the Safe Disposal Guide for details.)

Absolute Rule: No Sharing Devices / Needles​

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Never share injection pens, vials, syringes, or needles—even if you swap the needle.

Sharing any of this equipment can transmit blood-borne infections such as HIV and hepatitis B or C. The rule applies to supplies used in Paths A, B, and C. Each person must have their own dedicated set.