Yeah, it sounds like the needle went in too shallow, but don't worry, the medicine will eventually get absorbed (though sometimes a bit of the med will leak back out the needle hole). With an SQ injection I just pinch up about an inch of skin with one hand and then stick the needle straight in with the other hand. Don't wory about the angle of the needle. It'll take you a few times to get the hang of injections, but as long as the medicine gets in it'll be ok.

You may also get a slight bruise. I agree that once it is in it will probably be ok. I only had one time I didn't get it right, and felt bad all week. In no time, you'll be an expert. Sad as that is. LOL

Thanks! I knew I could come to you guys for advice on shooting up.

yes, it will absorb. scary though for you. I get more bruising from the Enbrel sure click. That one you can't draw back to see if you hit a vein. and boy do you no it. "burns like no other".
so at least with the mtx, if you see blood when you draw back, you can move the location.
lot's of fun huh haha

when you guys get bruses from mtx injections how long do they stay around?...i have a few that are 2 months old..and still not going away...anyone else?

i don't bruise from the mtx but with the enbrel the bruising last a good week or two

disneyfan, I had a couple like this, then the RA doc advised that I give them around my belly button... at least an inch away from it, and just moving around it in clock fashion. (Hope that makes sense). The bruises were in my tummy above my waistline, they were horribly black... remembering, this was when I pulled the needle out and there was a drop of blood. They took a long time to fade, but did finally fade out.

Good luck!
-daizy8

I do 2 injections a week but I was told to do it in my upper legs. about 10ins about the knee cap or higher. Then alternate legs per injection. I don't get bruises, no pain at all.
Since the stuff makes us drowsy, I do mine right before bedtime, it really gives me a soild night sleep for a change.
Yes, your first was too shallow but still goes into your system but slower.
Hope this helps, soft hug

Sandi - am I supposed to be drawing back on a subcutaneous shot? I thought that was only for IM shots....aaahhh, so much to learn. Thanks to all of you guys for your words of wisdom. Aiming for a better shot next Tuesday!

As a RN I never drew back to check for blood on SQ injections, however, there are different schools of thought on this. RNs from other hospitals were told to drawback on SQs and did so. My opinion is that technique really doesn't matter with SQ injections....get the med in, and it'll be ok.

Yes, MTX gave me bruises every week, and they did hang around for about 6 weeks. I found injections to be less painful if given in the stomach verses the leg (your butt would be even less painful, but it's hard to reach!).