Managing injection side effects

Correct injection technique is important

Correct injection technique may help to reduce the chances of injection site reactions.

Injections are usually performed by a healthcare professional unless the medicine you have been prescribed can be self-administered or administered by a partner.

If self-administration is possible and you have received appropriate training then remember to read the instructions that came with your medicine carefully before each injection.

Cool the injection site

Before your injection use a cooling pad or ice pack to cool the area where you are going to be injected. Ensure that you use a cooling method that protects the skin, however, as ice and very cold temperatures can damage the skin if not used with a barrier of some kind.

If your doctor is administering your medication try to ask in advance where your medication is likely to be injected so you can be prepared.

Apply a local anaesthetic

If you find injections painful, apply (or ask your doctor to apply) a local anaesthetic to the injection site.

Warm the medicine

Injectable medicines for acromegaly may need to be kept in a refrigerator. However, these particular medicines should be removed from the refrigerator approximately 30 minutes before use, so as to warm to room temperature. Never warm the medicine in hot water or in a microwave. Keep the pouch sealed until you are ready for your injection.

Alternate the injection site

Injection site reactions can be reduced if the place where needles are inserted is regularly changed. Avoid injecting into an area that is already sore or hard.  Note that the recommended injection site will vary depending on the medicine you are being given and may be in areas such as under the skin of the arm or into the top back part of the buttock.