Yeztugo Injection Sites
Yeztugo (lenacapavir) should be injected subcutaneously into the abdomen, with the anterior thigh available as an alternative site if preferred. 1
Approved Injection Sites
According to the FDA-approved prescribing information, Yeztugo has two designated injection sites 1:
- Primary site: Abdomen (stomach area)
- Alternative site: Anterior thigh (upper leg)
The CDC guidelines confirm these same two sites: abdomen and anterior thigh 2.
Critical Administration Requirements
Injection Technique
- Administer at a 90-degree angle to ensure proper subcutaneous placement 2
- Do NOT inject intradermally (at angles ≤45°) due to risk of serious injection site reactions 1
- Each complete dose requires two separate 1.5 mL injections administered at least 4 inches apart 2, 1
Important Caveat About Other Sites
Do not use gluteal (buttock) injections for Yeztugo. While the IAS-USA guidelines mention gluteal administration for cabotegravir (a different long-acting injectable), this is not applicable to lenacapavir 3. The FDA label explicitly restricts Yeztugo to abdomen or thigh only 1.
Injection Site Reactions
Be aware that injection site reactions are very common, occurring in approximately 75-80% of patients 2. These include:
- Nodules (most frequent) - can be several centimeters in size and persist for months to over a year
- Pain
- Induration (hardening)
- Erythema and swelling
Proper injection technique at 90 degrees is critical to minimize these reactions, as incorrect intradermal injection significantly increases the risk of severe reactions including skin necrosis or ulceration 2, 1.
Mitigation Strategies
- Apply ice packs before and after injection
- Consider topical or oral analgesics
- Ensure proper 90-degree subcutaneous technique 2