Difficulty with injections because of loose skin

[LaLaDee 519]

I'm currently on a medication that I take with a subcutaneous injection which I self administer. It's a biologic for autoimmune conditions (not sure if anyone is familiar with Humira). I know some diabetes medications are similarly taken. Basically you stick a needle into that fatty tissue under your skin. I usually take it around my midsection (hips, lower stomach). However, lately I am struggling because I've got more loose skin and the fat isn't packed in tightly anymore. It's been super painful lately. Tonight I really messed up my injection though. I've basically injected it under my skin, I can see a little bubble under the skin. Not sure how it will absorb or what will happen (will see doctor tomorrow). I'm just wondering if anyone has a better solution. My stomach is messed up from weight loss. I'm just wondering if anyone has any tips or suggestions for future injections. Is there some fat grabbing technique I'm not aware of? Should I find another area to stick the needle (I have a flat bum and similar loose skin issues on my thighs). It's not common to have this much loose skin and I'm honestly not sure what to do.

[GradyCat 3,696]

Could you inject it into your thigh instead? Tighter skin there?

[WishMeSmaller 1,274]

Are you pinching up a fold of skin with underlying fat? If not, that is the best technique for people with less fat/loose skin. There are plenty of pics and videos online if you google it. I am a nurse and have given lots of these subcutaneous injections to very low BMI, older people, with loose skin. It just takes a bit more time to find a spot where you can pinch up enough fat. Reviewing with your doctor is a great idea. Good luck!

[Guest]

Humira is injected subcutaneous which means "under the skin". It's not injected into "fat". Don't worry about the loose skin. Pinch a bit of skin and inject as you always have. BTW I'm a licensed pharmacist.

[Guest]

Oh I forgot. If you are using the pen version (most likely you are) you don't have to pinch just hold the pen 90 degrees, insert the needle and inject the medicine.