You're Not Alone
Needle hesitation is very common. The good news is that the insulin syringes used for GLP-1s are tiny and virtually painless.
Preparation Tips
- Numb the area: Use an ice cube on the spot for 15 seconds before cleaning.
- Room temp: Let medication warm up for 15 minutes (cold liquid stings more).
- Distraction: Play music or a podcast while preparing.
During Injection
- Breathe: Take a deep breath in, inject on the exhale.
- Don't look: If using an auto-pen, you don't even have to see the needle.
- Quick motion: Fast insertion is less painful than slow.
It Gets Easier
Most patients report that after the first 2-3 injections, the anxiety disappears as they realize how painless the process actually is.
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Temitope Ajayi, MBBS, FMCGP
Family Medicine Specialist
Content reviewed by qualified healthcare professionals for accuracy.