Injectable Medications: Getting Over the Fear of Self-Injecting

If your doctor has prescribed you a self-injectable medication, you probably have some fear and this is perfectly normal. I was definitely scared and needles do not normally bother me in the least bit. There are a variety of medications that come in an injectable form and some only come in this form. This form has its benefits once you get past self-injecting it. Here I will share my experience with you and some tips on how to self-inject with confidence.

The First Time

I remember my first self-injection like it was yesterday, though it was several years ago. I am a trained health care professional and as I stated above, I have always been comfortable with needles. I honestly did not think I would be afraid until the time came to actually do it. I sat there with the needle in my right hand and my left hand gripping my left thigh all ready to go. I must have sat that way for 45 minutes just looking at the needle, then my thigh, then back at the needle. The needle was not big; it was only about an inch long and it was incredibly thin. Most vaccine needles are larger. Eventually, I took a deep breath and as I exhaled, I slid the needle into the pinched area of my thigh in a quick motion. I didn't even feel it. I then put the needle in the sharps container, looked at the ceiling at laughed. I had to laugh at how easy it was and how hard I made it out to be. Now, I tell you this not to discount your fear, but to let you know that you can self-inject too and that it really is not bad at all.

But, I Don't Know How to Use a Syringe

That is fine because your health care provider will take the time to carefully and thoroughly teach you how to take care of everything from dosage (if you are not getting a pre-dosed syringe), how to hold it, tips and tricks to minimize discomfort, disinfecting the area you are injecting, properly disposing of the syringe and everything else involved in self-injecting. Thousands of Americans self-inject everyday so you can learn and successfully do it.

What if I Can't Inject Temporarily?

I highly recommend bringing along a trusted friend or family member to learn how to inject you. I brought my mom along. You never know and there may be a day or circumstance that could prevent you from being able to self-inject so this person will have to inject for you. Thankfully I did this because when I broke my left arm a few years back I had to have my mom help me with my injections for a little over two months. Also, if you are sick or exhausted, it is a good idea to have someone help you if possible. Now, do not let having someone help you keep you from self-injecting whenever you can, however. You should be doing your own injections whenever possible.

Resources

Neura.net: Q&A: Self-Injection