Injection Technique
SubQ vs IM, site rotation, and hygiene
Subcutaneous (SubQ) injection
Most peptides are injected subcutaneously — into the fatty tissue just below the skin. Common sites: abdomen (2 inches from navel), upper thigh, and upper arm. Use a 29-31 gauge, 1/2 inch insulin syringe. Pinch the skin, insert at a 45-90 degree angle, inject slowly, and hold for 5 seconds before withdrawing.
Intramuscular (IM) injection
TRT and some other compounds are injected into muscle tissue. Common sites: ventrogluteal (hip), vastus lateralis (outer thigh), and deltoid (shoulder). Use a 25-27 gauge, 1-1.5 inch needle depending on body composition. No need to pinch — insert at 90 degrees into the muscle.
Site rotation
Rotate injection sites systematically to prevent lipodystrophy (lumps or tissue changes) and reduce discomfort. For SubQ, rotate between left abdomen, right abdomen, left thigh, right thigh. For IM, alternate between left and right glute or thigh.
The app tracks your injection sites with each dose log. Review your calendar to ensure you're rotating properly.
Hygiene essentials
Always wash hands before preparing injections. Swab vial tops and injection sites with alcohol wipes. Use a fresh needle for each injection — never reuse needles. Dispose of sharps in a proper sharps container, never in regular trash.
Free PDF · 2026 Edition
Get the complete Peptide Starter Guide
13 chapters. 34 citations. Mechanisms, clinical evidence, protocols, safety, and sourcing — in one free PDF. You'll also join the Staqk early access list.
Was this page helpful?
More Practical Guides
BPC-157 and TB-500 Stack: Protocol, Dosage & Complete Guide
Why these two peptides are almost always used together, and how to run the stack correctly
Tirzepatide Dosage Chart: Complete Escalation Guide
How to escalate tirzepatide doses safely, when to adjust, and what to expect at each step — including compounded tirzepatide protocols.
The Wolverine Stack: BPC-157, TB-500 & Thymosin Alpha-1 Protocol
The peptide repair stack named for its remarkable recovery-accelerating effects
Medical disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting any protocol.