Medical Disclaimer

This website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, changing, or stopping any medication or supplement. Dosage information reflects published FDA-approved labeling or publicly available clinical trial data — individual treatment decisions must be made by a licensed physician.

About tirzepatide

Subcutaneous injection site selection and rotation for tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound). Proper technique helps maximize drug absorption and minimize skin reactions.

Indication

Injection site guidance for tirzepatide subcutaneous self-injection.

Dose Calculator

Enter your prescribed dose and vial concentration to calculate how many units to draw.

mg ↔ Units Dose Calculator

Convert between milligrams and insulin-syringe units for compounded GLP-1 medications. Uses a standard U-100 syringe (100 units = 1 mL).

Units (U-100 syringe)100 units
Volume1.000 mL

2.5 mg at 2.5 mg/mL → 1.000 mL → 100 units on a U-100 (100-unit / 1 mL) insulin syringe

Always verify calculations with your prescribing provider or pharmacist before administering any medication. This calculator is for reference only.

Injection Sites

Abdomen

Subcutaneous fat of the abdomen, minimum 2 inches from navel.

  • Rotate injection sites within the abdomen each week
  • Divide abdomen into four quadrants and cycle through them
  • Avoid injecting near waistband, belt line, or scar tissue
  • First choice for most patients due to ease and absorption

Thigh

Outer front of the upper thigh, avoiding the inner thigh.

  • Alternate between left and right thigh each injection
  • Pinch skin if subcutaneous fat layer is thin
  • Do not inject in the same spot twice in a row

Upper arm

Posterior lateral aspect of the upper arm.

  • Requires a caregiver for proper technique
  • Use posterior surface (back of arm), not the deltoid
  • Ensure adequate subcutaneous fat — very thin arms may not be suitable

Storage Instructions

  • Store unused Mounjaro/Zepbound pens in refrigerator (36°F–46°F)
  • Do not freeze
  • After first use: store at room temperature ≤86°F for up to 21 days
  • Discard 21 days after first use
  • Keep pen cap on, protect from light

Common Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider if side effects are severe or persistent.

  • Mild redness, itching, or swelling at injection site
  • Bruising (inject slowly, relax the muscle)
  • Skin induration with repeated injections in same spot — rotate sites

Frequently Asked Questions

Q

Can I inject tirzepatide in my stomach?

Yes, the abdomen (stomach area) is a primary injection site for tirzepatide. Inject into the fatty tissue, at least 2 inches from your navel. Avoid the area directly around the belly button.
Q

How do I rotate injection sites for tirzepatide?

A good rotation system: Week 1 — abdomen left. Week 2 — abdomen right. Week 3 — left thigh. Week 4 — right thigh. Repeat. This gives each spot 4 weeks to recover before the next injection.
Q

How long does tirzepatide injection take?

The Mounjaro/Zepbound auto-injector pen delivers the dose in about 8–10 seconds. Hold the pen in place for 10 seconds after injection to ensure the full dose is delivered before removing the pen.

Primary Source

FDA / Clinical Source

Dosing information sourced from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf