1. Introduction

When given by injection, Anabolic Androgenic Steroids are delivered either intramuscularly (IM), deep into a muscle, or subcutaneously (SubQ), into the fatty tissue just under the skin. In this article, you will learn what items are needed to perform safe injections, where to inject, and the correct technique for both methods.

2. What Items Are Needed?

Before every injection, make sure you have:

• AAS vial
• New sterile syringe and two needles:
  For drawing the oil: 18–23 gauge
  For injection:
  IM: 25–27 gauge, 1–1½ inch
  SC: 27–29 gauge, ½ inch
• Alcohol prep pads (for vial top and skin)
• Sharps container (for safely disposing of used needles and syringes)
• Cotton ball or sterile gauze
• Clean surface and good lighting

Important: Always use new, sterile equipment for each injection. Never reuse needles or syringes.

3. Where to Inject

Intramuscular (IM) Sites

• Gluteus (upper outer buttock): Most common; large muscle, minimal nerve risk.
• Deltoid (upper arm): Usually used for smaller volumes (≤1 mL).
• Other muscle groups like upper chest, quads, triceps and lats can also be injected into, but these areas tend to have a much higher concentration of blood vessels and nerves, making them riskier in the long run.

Subcutaneous (SC) Sites

• Abdomen: In love handles or around the navel, at least 2 inches away.
• Thigh: Front or outer part where you can pinch a layer of fat.
• Lower back/flank or upper buttock: Alternate occasionally if needed.

Rotate sites with each injection to avoid irritation or scar tissue buildup.

4. Intramuscular Injection Instructions

1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

2. Prepare the medication

• Clean the vial’s rubber top with an alcohol swab.
• Attach the drawing needle (18–23 gauge) to the syringe.
• Draw air into the syringe equal to your prescribed dose, then insert the needle into the vial and push the air in (helps equalize pressure).
• Invert the vial and slowly draw the correct amount of Testosterone.
• Remove air bubbles by tapping and pushing gently on the plunger.
• Replace the large needle with your clean injection needle (25–27 gauge, 1–1½ inch).

3. Clean the injection site

Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely.

4. Insert the needle

• Hold the syringe like a dart.
• Relax the muscle you are injecting into and insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the muscle.

5. Inject slowly

Inject slowly over 20–30 seconds to reduce discomfort.

6. Withdraw and apply pressure

Withdraw the needle swiftly and apply gentle pressure with gauze or cotton. Massage the area in a circular motion.

7. Dispose safely

Dispose of all used items safely in a sharps container.

Tip: Some mild soreness afterward is normal. Gentle massage or a warm compress can help. If you experience swelling, redness, or pain that worsens day after day, get medical attention.

5. Subcutaneous Injection Instructions

1. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

2. Prepare the syringe

Prepare the syringe exactly as described above (but switch to a smaller 27–29 gauge, ½ inch needle instead).

3. Clean the area

Clean the chosen area with alcohol and let it dry.

4. Pinch a fold of skin

Pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and index finger.

5. Insert the needle

Insert the needle at a 45–90-degree angle into the fat layer.

6. Inject slowly

Inject slowly and steadily; it can take up to 60 seconds with higher gauge needles.

7. Withdraw and apply pressure

Withdraw the needle, release the skin fold, and apply gentle pressure with gauze.

8. Dispose immediately

Dispose of the needle and syringe immediately in a sharps container.

Tip: Subcutaneous injections are smaller in volume (usually ≤0.5–1 mL) and may cause less soreness than intramuscular injections, but oil bumps are possible and could last a few days until fully absorbed.

6. Post-Injection Pain Mitigation and Management

Mild discomfort after an injection is common, especially when first starting or changing sites. The following measures can help reduce soreness and improve comfort:

Warm Compress

Apply a warm compress or heating pad for 5–10 minutes post-injection to relax the muscle and improve absorption.

Massage Gently

Lightly massage the injection site to distribute the oil evenly and minimize localized irritation.

Rotate Sites

Avoid using the same area repeatedly. Rotating between different sides of the glute and deltoid reduces scar tissue and inflammation.

Move After Injection

Light movement or exercise of the injected muscle helps circulation and prevents stiffness.

Monitor Technique

Inject slowly and steadily; rapid injection can increase pressure and soreness.

Check Needle Size

Using too short or too large a needle can cause unnecessary pain or poor absorption, always use the right needle length for the type of tissue you are injecting into.

Warm the Vial (optional)

Exposing the vial to warm water for 1–2 minutes can slightly thin the oil, making the injection smoother.

Watch for Red Flags

1. Persistent pain >3 days
2. Swelling, redness, or heat around the site
3. Hard lumps or drainage
4. Fever or chills

If any of these occur, contact your healthcare provider immediately.