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Education Center

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How to give yourself a subcutaneous injection

How to give yourself a intramuscular injection

Frequently Asked Questions

  • All medications should be refrigerated when they are received. Shipped GLP-1 medication can generally be left out of the refrigerator (up to 86°F or 30°C), for 21 to 56 days, depending on the specific medication, after which they must be discarded.

  • We offer shipping protection plan for an additional $20 that protects your order from any situation. 

  • Less than 2 days have passed: inject NOW.

    More than 2 days have passed: WAIT. Take ON your next scheduled weekly injection day.

  • Yes, hair loss is normally temporary with weight loss. Some patients will lose hair because of decreased caloric intake, specifically 900 calories or less. Taking biotin supplemental or injections can help minimize hair loss. Valyra Health offers biotin injections if needed.

  • Gastrointestinal upset, headache, fatigue, and dizziness. Most of these symptoms can be minimized with adequate hydration, electrolyte replacement and vitamins. Options have lipotropic injections as well as vitamins, supplements, and stool softeners to help any side effects. Rest may also be helpful. For a headache, acetaminophen or ibuprofen is useful.

  • Most side effects occur after the initial dose and can last as long as the second dose. Most side effects lessen over time. 

  • You may decrease your dose back down to a tolerable level that still allows weight loss and try to increase more slowly. Alternatively, your medical provider may increase the period in between injections. 

  • The half-life of GLP-1 in the body is 7 days. The medication can take up to 80 days to metabolize completely out of the body.

  • Stop taking the medication immediately and call your physician.

  • The medication is started at a low level and increased up slowly. This allows the body time to adapt and tolerate the medication while minimizing side effects. You can increase the dose 10 units at a time weekly if you are experiencing hunger at lower doses or towards the end of the 7 days.

  • Continue onto the GLP-1 maintenance program with 1-2 injections per month. Studies show, patients steadily gain weight back over the years without maintenance.

  • Yes, do not inject at least two weeks prior to your surgery or procedure. Check with your physician to confirm your stop date as a longer period may be recommended.

  • Staying hydrated is very important as many patients become dehydrated when their appetite decreases. Electrolytes are helpful. Over-the-counter acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help to alleviate headache.

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