Nasal SprayFrom $166/mo
InjectionFrom $166/mo
Medically reviewed by Vanessa Niles, R.N., M.D., F.A.C.O.G. —
Definition
Subcutaneous injection, in plain English
MedlinePlus explains that a subcutaneous (SQ or sub-Q) injection is given in the fatty tissue just under the skin. The National Cancer Institute defines subcutaneous simply as 'beneath the skin.'
Medicine absorbs more slowly than it would from a vein, and the technique is simple enough to learn at home. MedlinePlus advises changing the injection site each time, at least an inch from the last one.
- Goes into
- Fat layer under the skin
- Common sites
- Belly, thigh
- Also called
- SQ, sub-Q
How it connects
How subcutaneous injection relates to NAD+
Subcutaneous NAD+ has very little published research compared with IV NAD+. Your provider sets the dose and schedule and shows you the technique.
For your treatment
What subcutaneous injection means for NAD+ therapy
Put used needles straight into a sharps container and follow the FDA's disposal guidance. Never flush them or throw them loose in the trash.
- Free online consultation with a licensed U.S. provider
- NAD+ nasal spray or injection, plans from $166 a month if prescribed
- NAD+ has no FDA-approved use; compounded NAD+ isn’t FDA-approved
Questions
Subcutaneous injection: common questions
What is a subcutaneous injection?
A subcutaneous injection is a shot into the fatty layer just under the skin, usually in the belly or thigh, with a short, thin needle. It's how at-home NAD+ injections are given.
Does a subcutaneous injection hurt?
Most people feel a quick pinch. A small needle and a slow, steady push usually make it more comfortable.
Where do I inject NAD+?
Usually the belly or thigh, as your provider shows you. Rotate sites each time.
What strengths does NADMedics prescribe?
Nasal spray: 30 mg per 0.1 mL in a 15 mL bottle. Injection: 200 mg/mL in a 5 mL vial. Your provider sets your dose.
How do I report a side effect?
Tell your provider, and you can report it to the FDA's MedWatch program. Call 911 for chest pain or trouble breathing.
Do I need a prescription for NAD+?
Yes. Compounded NAD+ requires a prescription from a licensed provider after a review of your health.
Keep learning
Related NAD+ terms
Terms that connect to subcutaneous injection, each explained on its own page.
- Treatment & safetyNAD+ IV infusionAn NAD+ IV infusion delivers NAD+ straight into a vein through a drip, usually over several hours in a clinic. It's different from the at-home nasal spray and injections NADMedics prescribes.
- Treatment & safetyIntranasal administrationIntranasal administration means giving a medicine as a spray into the nose, where it's absorbed through the nasal lining. It's how NAD+ nasal spray is used.
- Treatment & safetyBioavailabilityBioavailability is how much of a medicine, and how fast, reaches the bloodstream or the place where it acts. It differs by route: IV, injection, nasal spray or by mouth.
- Treatment & safetyCompounded medicationA compounded medication is a drug mixed or altered by a licensed pharmacist for an individual patient. Compounded drugs, including compounded NAD+, aren't FDA-approved.
Guides that cover subcutaneous injection
Official sources
Subcutaneous injection: sources and official resources
Official government and research sources behind this page, so you can check the facts yourself.
- MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine)Subcutaneous (SQ) injections
Step-by-step guide to giving a shot into the fatty tissue under the skin.
- National Cancer InstituteNCI Dictionary of Cancer Terms: subcutaneous
Subcutaneous means beneath the skin.
- U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationSafely Using Sharps (Needles and Syringes) at Home, at Work and on Travel
How to store and throw away used needles and syringes safely.
- U.S. Food and Drug AdministrationDisposal of Unused Medicines: What You Should Know
Take-back locations and safe ways to get rid of medicine you no longer need.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Vanessa Niles, R.N., M.D., F.A.C.O.G., on October 12, 2026. This glossary is general education, not medical advice. NAD+ has no FDA-approved use, and compounded NAD+ is not FDA-approved or evaluated by the FDA for safety or effectiveness. Talk with a licensed provider before starting any supplement or treatment.
Questions about NAD+? Ask a provider
Book a free online consultation. A licensed U.S. provider reviews your health and, if NAD+ fits, prescribes the nasal spray or injection, with plans from $166 a month.
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