How do I use the Otrexup auto-injector for my arthritis?

Setting Up Your Otrexup Auto-Injector

To use the Otrexup auto-injector for rheumatoid arthritis, follow these steps [1].

Receiving Training from a Healthcare Professional

First, your doctor should show you how to use the auto-injector, which includes a series of training sessions. This ensures you feel comfortable and confident administering each injection correctly. The training covers understanding the device's parts, preparing for an injection, and properly injecting the medication [1].

Preparing the Auto-Injector

Before each injection, remove the Otrexup auto-injector from the refrigerator and let it warm up in its original packaging at room temperature for about 15 to 30 minutes. Remove the protective cap from the needle guard and the orange cover. Do not take the auto-injector out of its tray [1, 2].

Administering the Injection

Choose a site on your stomach area (abdomen) for the injection. Pinch the skin between the thumb and index finger to create a fold. Place the Otrexup auto-injector against the pinched skin at a 90-degree angle and press the injection button firmly until you hear a click. Release the button immediately after hearing the click. Do not try to force the injection. Massage the injection site for about 10 seconds to help spread the medication. Remove the Otrexup auto-injector from your skin and recap or cap it. Dispose of the used auto-injector according to your doctor's disposal instructions [1, 2].

Maintaining the Auto-Injector

After administering the injection, replace the protective cap to keep the needle guard clean and covered until the next use. If you miss a dose, your doctor may suggest alternative administration methods, such as the manual syringe that comes with Otrexup [2, 3].

Common Side Effects and Monitoring

Keep track of your blood counts, and inform your doctor if you experience any unusual side effects, including skin lesions, dizziness, or difficulty swallowing. The most common side effects associated with Otrexup include skin reactions, mouth sores, diarrhea, and headache [3].

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Sources

[1] Otrexup package insert. Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. 2022
[2] Otrexup Auto-Injector User Manual. Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. 2022
[3] Otrexup full prescribing information. Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc. 2022