1. Gather Your Injection Supplies in Advance
Avonex--or interferon beta-1a--is the only intramuscular injection treatment for multiple sclerosis. If you've been prescribed this once-weekly medication, take time to gather your supplies before preparing to administer your injection. First, remember to take the pre-filled syringe out of the refrigerator 20 to 30 minutes prior to giving your shot. Most patients agree that the procedure is more comfortable when the medicine is at room temperature. Never microwave your medication. While waiting for the Avonex to warm up, set up a clean, well-lit area. Get out an alcohol swab, sterile cotton ball, bandage and puncture-proof container (like a bleach jug or milk carton) for proper needle disposal.
2. Select a New Injection Site
Choose a new site for each injection to prevent skin irritation, swelling and tissue breakdown and indentation. Keep careful track of your injection dates and sites in a journal so you avoid injecting the same place twice. The most ideal spots for intramuscular injections are the thigh and upper arm.
3. Ice the Area and Take a Pain Reliever
Apply ice or a cool pack to the selected area for 1 to 2 minutes before and after your shot. You may find that it reduces swelling of the injection site and discomfort associated with shot administration. Ask your doctor if it is appropriate to take an analgesic or fever reducer before your weekly Avonex dose. Many patients agree that it helps with post-injection discomfort and the flu-like symptoms that may follow the shot.
4. Clean the Area and Inject the Medication
Wash your hands thoroughly before you prepare to clean your skin or handle the syringe. Use the alcohol wipe to thoroughly cleanse the site and the surrounding area, allowing it to dry for several seconds. Pull the plastic tip off of the needle, and stretch the skin tightly with one hand. Take a deep breath, and concentrate on relaxing the muscles in the selected arm or thigh. With the other hand, grasp the syringe in a pencil-grip and quickly insert the needle at a 90-degree angle into the prepared injection site. You should feel the needle go through the skin, and directly into the muscle. Release the skin, and depress the syringe plunger until the medication is gone. With your free hand, press the cotton ball against the injection site as you withdraw the needle with the other hand. Apply gentle pressure in a circular motion to stop the bleeding and disperse the medication within the muscle tissue. Apply a bandage, if needed, and immediately dispose of the needle in the puncture-proof container.
5. Overcome Your Fears
Don't let fear keep you from battling your MS with intramuscular interferon. If you are afraid of needles or are physically or emotionally unable to give yourself the injections, ask a trusted friend or caregiver to attend a physician appointment with you so she may become trained to administer shots. Many doctors also offer patients the option of making appointments to receive injections on-site.
