Subcutaneous

Also: subcut, sub-q

In plain language

An injection given into the fatty layer just under the skin rather than into a vein or muscle.

Technical definition

Administration into the subcutaneous tissue beneath the dermis, producing slower absorption than intravenous or intramuscular routes; the standard route for most GLP-1 agonists and research peptides.

Subcutaneous injection is common for peptides because it is easy to self-administer and provides steady absorption. Typical sites include the abdomen, thigh, and back of the upper arm.