This information explains a change in the way we give intragluteal intramuscular (IM) injections (shots). An intragluteal IM injection is when a medication is injected into a muscle in your buttocks (butt).
An intragluteal IM injection is a way to give medication directly into a deep muscle in your buttock. Your healthcare provider will explain which medication you’re getting and why.
In the past, we gave intragluteal IM injections in the thick muscle at the rear of your butt. This is called your dorsogluteal site. Injecting this area comes with some risks, such as temporary or permanent nerve damage. This is why we are changing the way we give these injections.
Now, your nurse will give you the injection in the large muscle where your leg and hip bones meet (see Figure 1). This is called your ventrogluteal site. This area has thick tissue without many nerves around it. This reduces the risk of nerve damage. It makes it the safest place to get an injection in your glute area. You may feel some pain or tenderness after the injection. This is normal and expected.
Figure 1. Injection site
When to Call Your Healthcare Provider
Call your healthcare provider if:
- The injection site will not stop bleeding.
- You have very bad pain at the injection site.
- You have a fever of 100.4° F (38° C) or higher.
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You have signs of an allergic reaction at the injection site or anywhere on your body. Signs of an allergic reaction include:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Itching
- A rash