A Step-by-Step Guide on How to give DUPIXENT injection in thigh?

According to instructions for use, DUPIXENT (dupilumab) is administered as a subcutaneous injection, and the thigh is one of the recommended self-injection sites. Mastering the correct technique on how to give DUPIXENT injection in thigh ensures safe and effective delivery of the medication while minimizing discomfort.

Quick Summary

This article outlines the proper procedures for a DUPIXENT thigh injection, covering the necessary preparation steps, the specific techniques for both the pre-filled pen and syringe, and essential post-injection care. It also includes important safety tips and common questions.

Key Points

• Warm medication to room temperature: Allow the pen or syringe to sit out for at least 30-45 minutes before use to minimize injection discomfort.

• Rotate injection sites: Alternate between the left and right thighs or the abdomen for each dose to prevent bruising, soreness, or skin damage.

• Check medication before use: Inspect the liquid for clarity and color (it should be clear to pale yellow) and check the expiration date on the pen or syringe.

• Do not rub the injection site: After removing the needle, dab the area with a cotton ball or gauze if needed, but do not rub to prevent irritation.

• Use a sharps disposal container: Immediately after injection, dispose of the used pen or syringe in a puncture-resistant container.

• Know your device: The correct technique differs for the pre-filled pen (90° angle, no skin pinch for adults) and the pre-filled syringe (45° angle, requires a skin pinch).

Preparing for Your DUPIXENT Thigh Injection

Proper preparation is crucial for a smooth and successful injection. Always consult your healthcare provider for training before attempting to inject on your own.

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you begin, gather all the necessary items on a clean, flat surface:

• The DUPIXENT pre-filled pen or syringe
• One alcohol wipe
• One cotton ball or gauze pad
• A sharps disposal container

Preparing the Medication

• Remove from refrigerator: Take the DUPIXENT pen or syringe out of the carton and place it on your flat surface. Do not remove the cap yet.
• Warm to room temperature: The medication must warm up naturally. For a 300 mg dose, wait at least 45 minutes; for a 200 mg dose, wait at least 30 minutes. Do not heat the pen or syringe in any way, such as using a microwave or hot water.
• Inspect the liquid: Look through the window on the pen or syringe. The liquid should be clear to pale yellow. An air bubble is normal. Do not use the medication if it is discolored, cloudy, or contains particles.

Choosing and Preparing the Injection Site

• Select a site: Choose a spot on the front or side of your thigh. The upper or side areas are often reported as less painful than those closer to the knee. Do not inject into skin that is tender, bruised, damaged, scarred, or has visible veins.
• Rotate sites: To prevent soreness and irritation, use a different injection site for every dose. Keep a record of where you last injected.
• Clean the area: Use an alcohol wipe to clean the chosen site. Let the skin dry completely before injecting. Do not touch or blow on the cleaned area.

Step-by-Step Guide for the DUPIXENT Pre-filled Pen

This method is typically used by adults and children over 12 years of age.

1. Remove the cap: Pull the cap straight off when you are ready to inject. Do not twist or put the cap back on.
2. Position the pen: Hold the pen so you can see the window. Place the yellow (300 mg) or orange (200 mg) needle cover flat against your cleaned thigh at a 90-degree angle.
3. Start the injection: Press the pen firmly against your skin until you can no longer see the needle cover. You will hear a “click,” signaling the start of the injection.
4. Wait for completion: Keep holding the pen firmly in place. The window will begin to turn yellow. After the second “click” and the window is fully yellow, count to 5 slowly to ensure you receive the full dose.
5. Remove the pen: Pull the pen straight up off your skin. The needle cover will automatically lock into place, shielding the needle.

Step-by-Step Guide for the DUPIXENT Pre-filled Syringe

This method may be used by adults and children 6 months and older, with caregiver assistance for younger patients.

1. Remove the cap: Hold the syringe by the body and pull the needle cap straight off. Do not put the cap back on or touch the needle.
2. Pinch the skin: Gently pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned injection site on your thigh.
3. Insert the needle: Insert the needle completely into the pinched skin at a 45-degree angle.
4. Inject the medication: Release the skin pinch. Push the plunger rod down slowly and steadily until the syringe is empty.
5. Release and remove: Lift your thumb off the plunger rod. The needle shield will cover the needle as you remove the syringe from your skin.

Pen vs. Syringe: Thigh Injection Comparison

Feature	Pre-filled Pen (Autoinjector)	Pre-filled Syringe
User	Adults and children 12+	Adults and children 6+ months
Technique	Automatic injection with button press	Manual push of plunger
Angle	90° angle against the skin	45° angle into pinched skin
Needle Visibility	Hidden before and after injection	Visible before injection, shielded after
Pinching	Not required for adults and children 12+	Required for all users
Dose Confirmation	Window turns fully yellow after clicks	Visual confirmation when plunger is fully depressed

What to Do After Your Injection

Post-Injection Care

• Dab the site: Lightly press a cotton ball or gauze on the injection site if you see a small amount of blood.
• Do not rub: Rubbing the area can increase bruising or irritation.
• Monitor for reactions: Redness, swelling, or pain at the injection site are common but usually mild. Contact your healthcare provider if reactions are severe or do not improve. Applying a cold pack may help soothe the area.

Proper Disposal

Immediately after use, dispose of the pen or syringe and its cap in an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container. Never throw used needles or pens in your household trash.

Key Safety Considerations

Always follow these important safety rules to prevent injury and ensure proper medication delivery:

• Never reuse a DUPIXENT pen or syringe.
• Do not remove the cap until you are ready to inject.
• If the pen's window does not turn fully yellow or the injection seems incomplete, do not give a second dose. Contact your healthcare provider.
• The medication must be at room temperature before injection to reduce pain.
• Store unused pens or syringes in the refrigerator in their original carton.

Conclusion

Administering a DUPIXENT injection in the thigh can be a straightforward process with the right technique and preparation. By carefully following the steps for either the pre-filled pen or syringe, preparing the medication and site correctly, and rotating injection locations, patients can confidently and safely manage their treatment. While minor reactions are common, understanding proper post-injection care and when to contact a healthcare provider is essential for a positive experience. Always ensure you have received training from a healthcare professional before self-injecting.

For more information and patient resources, visit the official Dupixent website: Dupixent Injection Support Center.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I reduce pain during a DUPIXENT thigh injection?

To reduce pain, ensure the medication is at room temperature before injecting. Wait at least 30-45 minutes after removing it from the refrigerator. You can also apply a cold pack to the site for a few minutes before the injection, as long as it does not numb the area too much. Injecting slowly and steadily can also help.

Is it better to inject DUPIXENT in the thigh or stomach?

The ideal injection site is a matter of personal preference. Many users find the stomach to be less sensitive than the thigh, but both are approved sites. It is important to rotate between all approved sites (thighs and abdomen) to minimize irritation and reactions at any single spot.

Do I need to pinch my skin when using the DUPIXENT pen?

No, for the pre-filled pen, pinching the skin is not necessary for adults and children 12 years and older. However, it may be required for children under 12, so always follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.

What if I see a bubble in the syringe or pen?

An air bubble visible in the viewing window is a normal occurrence and does not affect the medication or the injection process. You can proceed with the injection as instructed.

What should I do if the injection fails or seems incomplete?

If you are using the pen and the window does not turn completely yellow after the second click, or if using the syringe and the plunger does not fully depress, do not attempt a second injection. Remove the device and contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance.

How long can DUPIXENT stay out of the refrigerator?

DUPIXENT pens or syringes can be kept at room temperature (up to 77°F / 25°C) for a maximum of 14 days. If the medication is not used within this time, it must be discarded.

Can I inject DUPIXENT through my clothing?

No, you should never inject DUPIXENT through your clothes. The medication should be administered into clean, dry skin to ensure a proper and hygienic injection.