Injecting medication at home can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. If your doctor has prescribed Yuflyma for your condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, uveitis or Crohn’s disease, this comprehensive guide on how to inject Yuflyma at home will walk you through every step with clarity and confidence.
What is Yuflyma?
Yuflyma® (adalimumab-aaty), which you may be preparing to administer, is not just a standard therapeutic agent; it is, in fact, a biosimilar medication. As a biosimilar, it is highly similar to an existing biological medication, known as the ‘reference product’, which in this case is adalimumab, marketed under the brand name Humira®. Extensive comparison through analytical studies has shown that Yuflyma matches its reference in terms of potency, safety, and efficacy.
Despite the similarities, it is important to note that biosimilars are not labeled as “generic” versions of biologic medications because biologics are derived from living cells and are inherently complex, and it is impossible to create an exact copy. Rest assured, before approval, Yuflyma has gone through rigorous regulatory pathways to confirm that it is as safe and efficacious as the original biologic.
Preparing for Your First Self-Injection
Excited? Maybe a little nervous? Totally normal feelings when you’re about to take charge of your health in a hands-on way.
How to Inject Yuflyma at Home – Starting Steps
Clean Workspace: First thing’s first—find yourself a clean, well-lit area to prepare.
Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water. It’s simple, but it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.
Gather Supplies: Get your Yuflyma pre-filled syringe or pen, alcohol wipes, cotton balls, and a sharps container for disposal.
Storage Savvy: Remember, Yuflyma should be stored in the refrigerator. If it’s too cold to the touch, let it sit out for 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Never use a microwave or hot water to warm it.
Step-by-Step Injection Guide
Here’s the meat and potatoes of what you came for—how to inject Yuflyma at home:
Check It: Inspect your Yuflyma. It should be clear, and colorless to slightly yellow. If it’s cloudy or has particles, don’t use it.
Skin Selection: Choose your injection spot—either the front of your thighs or your belly, avoiding the waistline and staying two inches clear of the navel.
Clean Up: Swipe the selected area with an alcohol wipe and let it air dry.
Get Grip-Ready: Hold the pen firmly. Remove the needle cover when you’re set to go.
Pinch an Inch: With your free hand, gently pinch the skin around the injection site.
Needle in, Steady: Press the pen firmed onto your pinched skin at 90-degree angle.
Plunge with Confidence: Press the plunger down and steadily until all the medication is injected. It typically take 10 to 15 seconds.
Release and Withdraw: Let go of your skin. Pull the needle out while keeping it at the same angle it went in.
Praise and Press: Give yourself a little internal high-five for a job well done. Place a cotton ball over the site and apply pressure for a bit. If there’s bleeding, that’s okay. Just keep the pressure on a little longer.
Sensible Disposal: Don’t recap the needle. Pop it straight into the sharps container. Of note, Yufyma does have a free sharp container delivery service to your home as well as free returns.
Doesn’t sound too tricky, right? Remember, practice makes perfect.
Common Concerns
Feeling some nerves approach as the injection day circles on your calendar? It’s totally okay.
What About Side Effects?
Yuflyma, like any medication, can come with side effects, including:
Injection site reactions
Upper respiratory infections
Headaches
Rash
For a complete list, always refer to the medication guide provided with your prescription as well as your doctor.
Tips and Tricks for Successful Home Injections
Consistency is Key: Stick to a routine. Consistent timing can help make self-injections second nature.
Record Keeping: Keep a diary of your injection sites. This helps in rotating sites and tracking your condition.
Support System: Get your family or friends involved. A support system can offer a helping hand or emotional backing.
In Conclusion: Empower Yourself
Learning how to inject Yuflyma at home is a commitment to your well-being and health autonomy. Even though administering your injection might feel overwhelming at first, with each little push of the plunger, you’ll become more adept and confident in your ability to manage your treatment.
Call to Action: Take the First Step
Every journey begins with a single step — your health journey is no different. If you’ve been prescribed Yuflyma, start by discussing your treatment plan in-depth with your healthcare provider. Once you’re ready, gather your courage (and your supplies!) and take charge of your health, one injection at a time.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
Injecting medication at home can seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. If your doctor has prescribed Hyrimoz for your condition, such as rheumatoid arthritis, psoriasis, uveitis or Crohn’s disease, this comprehensive guide on how to inject Hyrimoz at home will walk you through every step with clarity and confidence.
What is Hyrimoz?
Hyrimoz® (adalimumab-adaz), which you may be preparing to administer, is not just a standard therapeutic agent; it is, in fact, a biosimilar medication. As a biosimilar, it is highly similar to an existing biological medication, known as the ‘reference product’, which in this case is adalimumab, marketed under the brand name Humira®. Extensive comparison through analytical studies has shown that Hyrimoz matches its reference in terms of potency, safety, and efficacy.
Despite the similarities, it is important to note that biosimilars are not labeled as “generic” versions of biologic medications because biologics are derived from living cells and are inherently complex, and it is impossible to create an exact copy. Rest assured, before approval, Hyrimoz has gone through rigorous regulatory pathways to confirm that it is as safe and efficacious as the original biologic.
Preparing for Your First Self-Injection
Excited? Maybe a little nervous? Totally normal feelings when you’re about to take charge of your health in a hands-on way.
How to Inject Hyrimoz at Home – Starting Steps
Clean Workspace: First thing’s first—find yourself a clean, well-lit area to prepare.
Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and water. It’s simple, but it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent infection.
Gather Supplies: Get your Hyrimoz pre-filled syringe or pen, alcohol wipes, cotton balls, and a sharps container for disposal.
Storage Savvy: Remember, Hyrimoz should be stored in the refrigerator. If it’s too cold to the touch, let it sit out for 30 minutes to reach room temperature. Never use a microwave or hot water to warm it.
Step-by-Step Injection Guide
Here’s the meat and potatoes of what you came for—how to inject Hyrimoz at home:
Check It: Inspect your Hyrimoz. It should be clear, and colorless to slightly yellow. If it’s cloudy or has particles, don’t use it.
Skin Selection: Choose your injection spot—either the front of your thighs or your belly, avoiding the waistline and staying two inches clear of the navel.
Clean Up: Swipe the selected area with an alcohol wipe and let it air dry.
Get Grip-Ready: Hold the pen firmly. Remove the needle cover when you’re set to go.
Pinch an Inch: With your free hand, gently pinch the skin around the injection site.
Needle in, Steady: Press the pen firmed onto your pinched skin at 90-degree angle.
Plunge with Confidence: Press the plunger down and steadily until all the medication is injected. It typically take 10 to 15 seconds.
Release and Withdraw: Let go of your skin. Pull the needle out while keeping it at the same angle it went in.
Praise and Press: Give yourself a little internal high-five for a job well done. Place a cotton ball over the site and apply pressure for a bit. If there’s bleeding, that’s okay. Just keep the pressure on a little longer.
Sensible Disposal: Don’t recap the needle. Pop it straight into the sharps container. Of note, Hyrimoz does have a free sharp container delivery service to your home as well as free returns.
Doesn’t sound too tricky, right? Remember, practice makes perfect.
Common Concerns
Feeling some nerves approach as the injection day circles on your calendar? It’s totally okay.
What About Side Effects?
Hyrimoz, like any medication, can come with side effects, including:
Injection site reactions
Upper respiratory infections
Headaches
Rash
For a complete list, always refer to the medication guide provided with your prescription as well as your doctor.
Tips and Tricks for Successful Home Injections
Consistency is Key: Stick to a routine. Consistent timing can help make self-injections second nature.
Record Keeping: Keep a diary of your injection sites. This helps in rotating sites and tracking your condition.
Support System: Get your family or friends involved. A support system can offer a helping hand or emotional backing.
In Conclusion: Empower Yourself
Learning how to inject Hyrimoz at home is a commitment to your well-being and health autonomy. Even though administering your injection might feel overwhelming at first, with each little push of the plunger, you’ll become more adept and confident in your ability to manage your treatment.
Call to Action: Take the First Step
Every journey begins with a single step — your health journey is no different. If you’ve been prescribed Hyrimoz, start by discussing your treatment plan in-depth with your healthcare provider. Once you’re ready, gather your courage (and your supplies!) and take charge of your health, one injection at a time.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.
HLA-B27 is a gene that provides instructions for making a protein called major histocompatibility complex, class I, B 27 (MHC Class 1 B 27). This protein plays an important role in the immune system by presenting antigens to T-cells. Approximately 6-8% of the general population carries the HLA-B27 gene, though prevalence varies among different ethnic groups. HLA-B27 positivity is closely associated with a group of inflammatory joint conditions known as seronegative spondyloarthropathies. The most well-known of these is ankylosing spondylitis, where up to 90% of patients test positive for HLA-B27. Other associated conditions include reactive arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and acute anterior uveitis. While the exact mechanism is unclear, it is believed that HLA-B27 may present self-antigens to T-cells, triggering an autoimmune response that leads to chronic inflammation in the joints and eyes.
HLA-B27 and the Eye
The main ocular manifestation of HLA-B27 is uveitis, which is inflammation of the middle layer of the eye called the uvea. Up to 50% of cases of acute anterior uveitis are associated with HLA-B27. Although HLA-B27 is strongly linked to acute anterior uveitis, which involves the iris and ciliary body, it can also be associated with intermediate, posterior and panuveitis.
The exact mechanism for how HLA-B27 leads to increased uveitis risk is not fully understood. One theory is molecular mimicry, where HLA-B27 is similar in structure to molecules found in the eye, leading to cross-reactivity of the immune system. Another theory suggests HLA-B27 misfolds and elicits an inflammatory response. Regardless of the mechanism, HLA-B27 positive individuals have a greatly increased lifetime risk for developing recurrent uveitis.
Types of HLA-B27 Uveitis
The most common type of uveitis associated with HLA-B27 is acute anterior uveitis, which involves inflammation of the iris and ciliary body in the front of the eye. Up to 50% of all cases of acute anterior uveitis are linked to HLA-B27 positivity [1]. Anterior uveitis leads to redness, pain, and blurred vision.
While anterior uveitis is most typical, HLA-B27 positive individuals can also develop inflammation involving the posterior segment of the eye, including intermediate uveitis, posterior uveitis, and panuveitis [2]. Posterior inflammation is less common but can lead to more severe visual complications if not treated promptly.
Symptoms of HLA-B27 Uveitis
The most common symptoms of HLA-B27 associated uveitis are:
Acute onset of redness in one eye
Eye pain and discomfort, often severe
Blurred vision or reduced visual acuity
Photophobia or increased sensitivity to light
Tearing and discharge
Patients often describe a sudden onset of symptoms including severe pain, redness, and light sensitivity in one eye. Vision becomes blurred or cloudy. Discharge and tearing may occur as inflammation sets in. The symptoms arise rapidly and reach peak intensity over the course of a few days. Attacks often recur periodically in the same eye.
The acute anterior uveitis associated with HLA-B27 has a classic presentation but posterior uveitis involving the retina or choroid can also occur. Symptoms help differentiate anterior versus posterior inflammation. Vision loss, floaters, and photopsias point more to posterior segment issues.
In summary, the typical symptoms of HLA-B27 uveitis are unilateral red eye with blurred vision, pain, and tearing. The acute onset and recurrent nature helps differentiate it from other types of uveitis. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is key to prevent complications from repeated bouts of inflammation.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing HLA-B27 uveitis involves a comprehensive eye examination, medical history assessment, and laboratory tests. Ophthalmologists may use several methods to evaluate the type and severity of uveitis:
Slit lamp exam – This allows close inspection of the front structures of the eye. Signs of inflammation in the anterior chamber such as flair and inflammatory cells can be observed. The architecture of the iris and lens are also examined for abnormalities.
Intraocular pressure measurement – Increased pressure may indicate inflammation of the trabecular meshwork or steroid response. Low pressure can occur with severe inflammation.
Dilated pupil exam – Drops are used to open up the pupil so the ophthalmologist can thoroughly inspect the posterior segment with an ophthalmoscope. Active inflammation of the retina or choroid may be visible.
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) – This non-invasive imaging technique can reveal subtle changes in the retina and measure areas of macular edema.
Fluorescein angiography – A dye injected into the arm travels to the blood vessels in the eye. This allows detailed visualization of retinal vasculitis, vascular leakage, and macular edema.
Lab tests – HLA-B27 blood testing confirms the genetic marker. Complete blood count, inflammatory markers, syphilis testing, and x-rays may be ordered to rule out other potential causes of uveitis.
Treatment
Treatment for HLA-B27 uveitis focuses on controlling acute flare ups and preventing recurrent episodes of inflammation. The main treatments include:
Topical corticosteroid eye drops such as prednisolone or dexamethasone are used to rapidly decrease inflammation and symptoms during an acute attack. High potency drops may be given frequently (up to every hour) upon onset of a flare up.
Immunomodulatory medications can be used to reduce the body’s autoimmune response and prevent recurrent episodes of uveitis. Common options include methotrexate, mycophenolate mofetil, cyclosporine, and newer biologic agents like adalimumab or infliximab. These are often used along with low-dose corticosteroid drops to maintain remission.
According to research, “Treatment for HLA-B27 uveitis can range from local corticosteroids to immunosuppressive drugs, and now numerous studies have highlighted the benefits of tumor necrosis factor alpha inhibitors in the management of HLA-B27-associated uveitis” (Source)
The treatment plan is tailored to the individual patient based on the severity and recurrence pattern of their inflammation. The goal is to find the lowest effective doses needed to control the uveitis long-term.
During monitoring exams, the ophthalmologist will perform a slit lamp exam to carefully inspect the anterior chamber for signs of recurrent inflammation. Intraocular pressure will also be checked to screen for steroid-induced glaucoma. Dilated fundus exam and optical coherence tomography may be done to check for cystoid macular edema and other posterior segment complications. Patients are instructed to contact their ophthalmologist immediately if symptoms of recurrent uveitis flare up between scheduled visits.
Regular monitoring aims to achieve quiescence of inflammation and prevent permanent vision loss from complications. Studies show that 60-90% of patients respond well to proper management and maintain 20/20 visual acuity long-term. However, ongoing adherence to treatment and follow-up care is imperative.
Complications
Chronic inflammation due to HLA-B27 uveitis can lead to several complications that threaten vision and eye health. The most common complications include:
Posterior Synechiae
Up to 40% of patients develop posterior synechiae, which are adhesions between the iris and lens [1]. These adhesions can permanently damage the drainage system and cause angle closure glaucoma.
Cataract
Around 20% of HLA-B27 uveitis cases result in cataract formation, particularly with repeated inflammation [2]. Cataracts cause blurred vision and eventual blindness if left untreated.
Glaucoma
Increased eye pressure is common in HLA-B27 uveitis. Glaucoma develops in up to 10% of patients and can lead to optic nerve damage and vision loss if uncontrolled [3].
Cystoid Macular Edema (CME)
Chronic inflammation can also result in CME, which is fluid accumulation in the macula causing blurred central vision. Regular eye exams are key to detecting CME early.
Prognosis
With timely diagnosis and proper management of HLA-B27 associated uveitis, the prognosis for vision is generally good. Studies show that with consistent steroid and immunomodulatory treatment to control inflammation, most patients can maintain useful vision and experience minimal complications.
According to a 10-year study published in Ocular Immunology and Inflammation, 95% of HLA-B27 positive uveitis patients achieved complete remission or only rare episodic inflammation when treated with systemic immunosuppression along with steroid eye drops. The study concluded that recurrent HLA-B27 anterior uveitis responds well to therapy and monitoring.
Patients need to work closely with their ophthalmologist for regular exams and screenings to detect recurrences early. With vigilant monitoring and treatment compliance, most can retain 20/20 vision despite having a chronic uveitis condition.
Conclusion – the importance of recognizing HLA-B27 uveitis and controlling inflammation
HLA-B27 associated uveitis can lead to significant ocular complications and vision loss if left uncontrolled. However, with prompt diagnosis and proper management, the prognosis for maintaining good vision is favorable. It is critical for both patients and physicians to be aware of the connection between HLA-B27 and uveitis.
Patients who test positive for HLA-B27 should have regular dilated eye exams to screen for signs of uveitis, even in the absence of symptoms. At the first sign of inflammation, aggressive treatment is needed to eliminate active disease and prevent recurring attacks. Though challenging to manage, chronic uveitis in HLA-B27 patients can typically be well-controlled with corticosteroid therapy and secondary immunosuppressive medications as needed.
Close monitoring for elevated eye pressure, cataracts, macular edema and other complications is also essential. Early intervention with surgery may be required in some cases. With a tailored treatment approach and ongoing care, most HLA-B27 positive patients can achieve lasting remission and preserve their vision.
Medical Disclaimer
The information in this video is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images, and information, contained in this article is for general information purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional
Enbrel is a prescription biologic medication used to treat certain autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, and plaque psoriasis. It comes as an autoinjector called Enbrel Sureclick, a syringe, and delivered with a machine (i.e., Enbrel Mini).
It contains the active ingredient etanercept, which is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blocker that targets overactive immune system cells to reduce inflammation and manage disease symptoms. Enbrel works by binding to TNF and blocking its function, which interrupts the inflammatory cascade that leads to joint swelling, pain, and damage in inflammatory forms of arthritis.
Enbrel comes in an autoinjector pen called the Enbrel SureClick that allows patients to self-administer the medication subcutaneously. The autoinjector contains a pre-filled cartridge with a single dose of Enbrel and spring-activated needle for injection. Using the autoinjector allows for a simple, convenient way to take the medication at home.
Understanding the Enbrel SureClick Autoinjector
The Enbrel SureClick autoinjector is a prefilled, single-dose disposable device designed to make self-injection straightforward and convenient. Here are the main parts to understand:
Cap – Covers the needle before injection to keep it sterile. Remove the cap just before injecting.
Viewing window – Allows you to see the Enbrel solution inside the device. Make sure the liquid looks clear to slightly yellowish and does not contain particles.
Expiration date – Check that the date has not passed before using. Do not use if expired.
Medicine – Each SureClick contains 50 mg of Enbrel in a prefilled syringe. No reconstitution is required.
Needle guard – Covers the needle after injection to prevent injury. The needle guard will deploy and lock automatically after the full dose is given.
Start button – Pressing this blue button starts the injection after the autoinjector is positioned on skin.
Injection complete indicator – Orange part that is visible when injection is done.
Familiarize yourself with these parts before using the Enbrel SureClick to ensure proper administration. With some preparation and by following all instructions, the autoinjector allows you to easily and comfortably deliver your Enbrel dose subcutaneously.
Before the Injection
Before injecting Enbrel, take the autoinjector out of the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature. This is an important step, as injecting cold medication can be uncomfortable. Leaving Enbrel at room temperature for about 30 minutes before injection allows the medication to warm up.
Some tips for allowing Enbrel to reach room temperature:
Take Enbrel out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before your scheduled injection time.
Do not try to warm the medication by heating it in a microwave or placing it in hot water, as this can damage the medication.
Lay the autoinjector on a flat surface like a tabletop or counter while you wait for it to warm up.
Avoid leaving Enbrel out of the refrigerator for longer than 30 minutes before injecting. The medication can be safely kept at room temperature for up to 30 days if needed, but it’s best to inject it as soon as it reaches room temperature. You also should not put it back in the refrigerator.
Check the solution in the autoinjector window periodically. When ready to inject, the solution should be clear and colorless, with no lumps or particles.
Allowing Enbrel to warm to room temperature helps make the injection process smooth and comfortable. Once the medication has reached room temperature, you are ready for the next steps of preparing the injection site and injecting Enbrel.
Choosing the Injection Site
The recommended injection sites for Enbrel SureClick are the abdomen, thighs, and upper arms. These areas generally have more padding between the skin and muscle which makes injections easier and more comfortable.
When choosing a site, avoid injecting within 2 inches of the navel or any scar tissue or bruises. Also avoid areas that are tender, red, hard or have psoriasis plaques.
Rotate injection sites with each use. Do not inject into the exact same spot each time. Recommended rotation patterns include:
Abdomen: Divide the abdomen into quadrants using the navel as the center. Inject in a different quadrant each time.
Thighs: Alternate between left and right thigh.
Upper arms: Alternate between left and right upper arm.
Properly rotating sites allows one area to fully heal between injections. This helps minimize skin reactions or buildup of scar tissue.
Preparing the Injection Site
Before administering your Enbrel injection, you will need to properly prepare the injection site. This helps ensure the medication is delivered safely and effectively.
The first step in preparing the injection site is to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water. Be sure to scrub for at least 20 seconds. This helps remove dirt and bacteria from your hands before handling the injection components.
Once your hands are clean, use an alcohol wipe to clean the skin at the injection site you have chosen. Be sure to let the alcohol fully dry before proceeding. Cleaning the skin with an alcohol wipe kills bacteria on the surface of the skin and prevents infection.
Only inject Enbrel into areas with no signs of skin problems like redness, swelling, scarring, or irritation. Avoid injecting into areas that are bruised, scarred, or feel hard. Also do not inject into moles, scars, bruises, or areas where the skin is tender, damaged, red, or hard.
Properly cleaning the injection site with an alcohol wipe before each use of Enbrel helps minimize skin reactions and ensure proper delivery of the medication.
Removing the Cap
To remove the cap from the Enbrel SureClick autoinjector, first inspect the cap to make sure it is intact and has not been previously removed. Grasp the cap and gently pull it straight off the autoinjector. Do not twist or bend the cap, as this could damage the internal needle.
Once you have removed the cap, set it aside on a clean surface. Be careful not to touch the exposed needle under the cap with your fingers, as this could contaminate the needle. The autoinjector is now ready for positioning and injection. Avoid removing the cap until you are ready to inject, as this helps keep the needle sterile.
If the cap is loose, damaged, or missing, do not use that autoinjector. Call your healthcare provider for a replacement. Never try to recap a used autoinjector or you may risk accidental needlestick injury.
Positioning the Autoinjector
Hold the autoinjector at a 90 degree angle against the injection site you have cleaned. You want to position it straight up and down, perpendicular to the skin, not at an angle. This allows the needle to properly insert into the skin.
Gently press the autoinjector firmly against the skin to start the injection. You will hear a click which signals the start of the injection, but continue holding it firmly in place. It is important to keep holding it securely against the skin throughout the entire injection process.
Do not try to inject at an angle as this can affect how well the medication is delivered. Keep the autoinjector straight up and down. Apply enough pressure so that it remains firmly in contact with the skin.
Starting the Injection
Once you have positioned the autoinjector against your skin at the injection site, you are ready to start the injection. To do this, you simply need to:
Firmly push the autoinjector all the way down against your skin until it stops moving. This will trigger the start button.
Listen for the click. The click signals that the injection has started and the medicine is being delivered.
Keep pushing down on the autoinjector. It is important to hold the autoinjector in place against your skin after the click for about 10 seconds to allow the full dose to be delivered.
You may hear a second click during this time – this is just an indicator that the injection is nearly complete.
After 10 seconds, you can then lift the autoinjector straight off of the injection site. The purple indicator will be visible to confirm the dose has been fully given.
Pushing the autoinjector all the way down until it stops moving is the action that starts the injection process. Keep the autoinjector firmly in place for 10 seconds after the click to allow the full dose to be properly injected.
Completing the Injection
After the loud click, continue holding the Enbrel SureClick autoinjector firmly against your skin for 10 seconds to ensure the full dose is delivered. Do not remove it sooner than 10 seconds, even if you think the injection is complete.
Holding the device in place allows time for all of the medication to be injected under the skin. If you remove it too soon, some medication may stay in the autoinjector and you will not get your full dose.
Keep holding the autoinjector firmly against the injection site for a slow count of 10 seconds. Count slowly in your head or out loud. After counting to 10, you can then lift the autoinjector straight up from your skin to complete the injection.
The blue indicator will now be visible to confirm the injection is complete. You may see a few drops of liquid on your skin, which is normal. Press a cotton ball or gauze pad over the injection site and hold for 10 seconds. Do not rub the site.
After the Injection
After you have completed the injection, you can remove the autoinjector from your skin. Check the viewing window to ensure the purple indicator is visible, confirming the full dose has been delivered. There may be a small amount of blood at the injection site – you can press a cotton ball or gauze over the injection site for 10 seconds to stop any bleeding. Do not rub the injection site.
It is important to properly dispose of the used autoinjector right away. Place the used SureClick autoinjector into an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container right away after use. Do not throw away (dispose of) loose needles and syringes in your household trash. Do not recycle your used sharps disposal container.
If you do not have an FDA-cleared sharps disposal container, you may use a household container that is:
Made of a heavy-duty plastic
Can be closed with a tight-fitting, puncture-resistant lid, without sharps being able to come out
Upright and stable during use
Leak-resistant
Properly labeled to warn of hazardous waste inside the container
When your sharps disposal container is almost full, follow your community guidelines for the right way to dispose of your sharps disposal container. There may be state or local laws about how to throw away used needles and syringes.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice, but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
Enbrel now comes as a new autoinjector, which can help you decrease medical waste. Today we’re going to learn how to give ourselves Enbrel with the Enbrel Mini. This medication is indicated for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, plaque psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).
How to give yourself Enbrel with the Enbrel Mini
Preparing for your injection
Keep your medication stored in the refrigerator until use
Before injecting medication, take the cartridge out of the refrigerator.
Allow it to warm up to room temperature.
Pick a place in your house that is clean and has room for your materials (such as the kitchen table).
Wash your hands thoroughly with either:
Soap & water
Hand sanitizer
Chose an area to inject – Thigh or Stomach.
Chose an area that is intact and clear.
It should not have any of the following:
Cuts
Scrapes
Bruises
Psoriasis patches
If you have extensive psoriasis, inject between patches
Moles
Scars
Please rotate area each time you inject (shown in picture below).
By British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Download this book for free at http://open.bccampus.ca [CC BY 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Cleanse chosen area
Cleanse chosen area with either of the following:
Alcohol swab
Alcohol and a cotton ball
Use the chosen alcohol material to “swipe” area
Can either use a circular motion or wipe in “strips”
Allow the area to dry
How to give yourself the injection
Prepare the autoinjector.
Choose how fast you want the medicine to be delivered: fast, medium, or slow.
Press the tab on the autoinjector to open the cartridge site.
With the blue facing down and with the sticker facing you, insert the yellow cartridge into the autoinjector. It should slip in very easily.
Close and remove the blue cap.
Hold the autoinjector like a joystick and press it firmly onto your skin at a 90 degree angle. The autoinjector will chime when ready.
Press the button. The time it takes to deliver the medication will differ. The injection is complete when you hear the second chime.
What to do after the injection
Lift the autoinjector up from skin.
The autoinjector will open and release the cartridge.
Place the cartridge into a sharps container
If you do not have a sharps container available, contact your pharmacy/doctor’s office about obtaining one
In the meantime, you may use an old coffee container with a lid
Some hospitals take full Sharps Containers for disposal. Here at the office we do not. Contact your pharmacy for more information about the disposing of your Sharps Container.
Discard remaining materials in the trash (cap, alcohol swabs, etc.)
If you have any concerns about your medication (e.g., excessive pain, swelling, redness bruising, bleeding, fever, breathing problems), please contact your rheumatologist.
Medical Disclaimer
This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice, but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
Continuing with our self-injection series, Dr. Farrell teaches us how to inject Cosentyx. Cosentyx, also known as secukinumab, is a monoclonal antibody that blocks interleukin-17. This is a cytokine that is overactive in diseases such as psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis. That being said, Cosentyx is FDA approved for ankylosing spondylitis, moderate to severe plaque psoriasis, and psoriatic arthritis. Cosentyx comes as a pen or autoinjector as well as the prefilled syringe. It also comes in two different doses: 150 mg and 300 mg.
Preparing for your injection
Keep your medication stored in the refrigerator until use
Before injecting medication, take the autoinjector or prefilled syringe out of the refrigerator.
Allow it to warm up to room temperature.
Pick a place in your house that is clean and has room for your materials (such as the kitchen table).
Wash your hands thoroughly with either:
Soap & water
Hand sanitizer
Choose an area to inject – Thigh or Stomach.
Choose an area that is intact and clear.
It should not have any of the following:
Cuts
Scrapes
Bruises
Psoriasis patches
If you have extensive psoriasis, inject between patches
Moles
Scars
Please rotate area each time you inject (shown in picture below).
Cleanse chosen area
Cleanse chosen area with either of the following:
Alcohol swab
Alcohol and a cotton ball
Use the chosen alcohol material to “swipe” area
Can either use a circular motion or wipe in “strips”
Allow the area to dry
Injecting Consentyx with an autoinjector/pen
Observe the medication in the window to be sure that it is clear (no cloudiness or crystals)
You will see a small air bubble within the window, this is normal and will not cause harm when injecting
Remove the cap
Press the tip of the auto-injector down in the skin at a 90 degree angle until it is flush with the skin
Press button and hold for 15 seconds
Viewing window will turn yellow or blue, but continue to hold the button for the full 15 seconds
Lift the auto-injector straight up
Injecting Consentyx with a prefilled syringe
Pull off the cap and observe the syringe to be sure that it is clear (no cloudiness or crystals)
Pinch the skin around the injection site and enter at a 45-degree angle
Press the plunger (slowly) to administer the medication
Once the medication is fully administered, the plunger will reach the bottom and a spring will place a cover over the needle
After the injection
Properly dispose of the entire autoinjector/pen or prefilled syringe
Sharps Container
Can be purchased at your local pharmacy
Disposal
Hospitals may take full sharps containers, ask first.
Pharmacies and Doctors’ offices are not allowed to take used syringes or needle
Discard remaining materials in the trash (cap, alcohol swabs, etc.)
Jessica Farrell, PharmD. Clinical Pharmacist, The Center for Rheumatology/Associate Professor, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
With the help of Autumn Koniowka. Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate Class of 2018, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, and Megan Phillips. Doctor of Pharmacy Candidate Class of 2018, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
A special thanks to Tammy Garren, PhD. Instructional Designer, Center for Innovative Learning, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Injection site image: By British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). Download this book for free at http://open.bccampus.ca [CC BY 4.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0)], via Wikimedia Commons
Medical Disclaimer
This information is offered to educate the general public. The information posted on this website does not replace professional medical advice, but for general information purposes only. There is no Doctor – Patient relationship established. We strongly advised you to speak with your medical professional if you have questions concerning your symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
