There can be some uncertainty about the differences between IM vs SubQ. Both can target similar areas of the body, like the thigh, but require very different techniques and supplies.
Subcutaneous (SubQ) injections deliver a medication into the fatty tissue just under the skin. Intramuscular (IM) injections are placed directly into muscle tissue, which has a richer blood supply.
Both routes are used across Olympia’s wellness and performance protocols. The choice depends on the compound’s intended use, absorption goals, and provider direction.
IM vs SubQ: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Intramuscular (IM) | Subcutaneous (SubQ) |
|---|---|---|
| Injection Depth | Directly into muscle tissue | Into the fatty tissue beneath the skin |
| Absorption Rate | Typically faster due to higher blood flow | Gradual, steady absorption over time |
| Onset Time | Faster onset for many compounds | Slower onset |
| Needle Size | Longer needle (usually 1–1.5 inches) | Shorter, finer needle (½ in / 5/16 in) |
| Comfort Level | May cause mild soreness post-injection | Often more comfortable; less tissue penetration |
| Ease of Administration | May require more training or in-clinic support | Commonly self-administered after instruction |
| Best for | Formulations intended for rapid uptake | Products designed for slow, consistent release |
| Example Compounds | Vitamins and amino acid blends | Peptides and certain hormone support formulations (as directed) |
| Typical Injection Sites | Glute, thigh, or deltoid muscle | Abdomen, thigh, or back of arm |
| Training Required | Recommended training for technique and depth accuracy | Minimal with provider instruction |
Start on Your IM/SubQ Journey
Absorption and Onset
IM injections reach muscle tissue, which has greater blood flow and may support faster uptake.
SubQ injections deliver into fatty tissue, allowing for slower, more sustained absorption.
Each Olympia product is designed for a specific route of administration to help achieve predictable results.
Comfort and Convenience
SubQ injections are often easier for home use, using shorter and thinner needles. IM injections may require a longer needle and careful site placement but are still practical with proper guidance.
Olympia’s clinical staff and pharmacists provide education and support for both methods to ensure comfort and confidence in administration. This can be accessed through our video tutorials, or by contacting us directly. For clinical questions, please email askthepharmacist@olympiapharmacy.com.
Start on Your IM/SubQ Journey
Product Compatibility: Use Each Formulation as Intended
Olympia compounds are prepared for specific administration routes to maintain product quality and performance. For example:
- Magnesium Chloride: intended for IV injection only.
- TriMix: intended for intracavernosal (IC) injection, not SubQ or IM.
Using the correct route helps optimize outcomes and aligns with provider-guided protocols.
Olympia Spotlight: ALA and NAC Prepared for IM
Olympia is excited to introduce an update to the administration routes for Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA) and N-Acetylcysteine (NAC). Both compounds are now being prepared for intramuscular (IM) injection.
This additional administration route is designed to help support more consistent absorption and steady delivery compared to subcutaneous routes. IM administration may also simplify dosing schedules and clinic workflows for many patients.
Start on Your IM/SubQ Journey
SubQ Injections You Should Know About
NAD+ (Nicotinamide Adenine Dinucleotide)
Olympia’s NAD+ formulation is a classic in our Longevity lineup of products. This formula can be administered via IV, IM, or SubQ injection!
Vitamin B12
Olympia’s B12 Cyanocobalamin injection can be administered via IM or SubQ injection. For Methylcobalamin, it can be administered via IV, IM, or SubQ!
A lipotropic staple, our Lipo-Mino-Mix injection can be given through IM or SubQ injection.
Another popular lipotropic that can be administered via either IM or SubQ is MICC! This popular combo features methionine, inositol, choline, and B12 cyanocobalamin.
Glutathione
A signature member of our Longevity line, Glutathione is an all-rounder; it can be administered via IV, IM, or SubQ injection!
Featuring a varied range of impactful minerals, our Mineral Blend can be administered via IV, IM, or SubQ injection.
Last but not least, this popular formulation of B-vitamins can be administered through IV, IM, or SubQ injection!
Each compound is prepared by Olympia Pharmaceuticals under strict current good manufacturing practices (cGMPs) and quality oversight from state and national boards, helping maintain the highest compounding standards.
Choosing the Right Route
Before beginning or changing an injection route, there are some questions you should ask your medical provider:
- Which route is intended for this product?
- How does absorption align with my care plan goals?
- What training do I need for self-administration?
- Have products like ALA or NAC received new injection guidance?
Start on Your IM/SubQ Journey
Olympia’s compounded medications will always come with a label that discloses what type of injections the product should be used for. Always review the product label to ensure the proper route of administration between IM vs SubQ. Refer to the graphic below to see where this information is displayed.
Beginning a new regimen can be intimidating at first, but our team is available to help make it easier! Whether reviewing our injection tutorials or contacting our team of pharmacists directly, we can help answer your clinical questions.
This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for advice from a licensed medical provider. All compounded formulations are prepared by Olympia Pharmaceuticals under cGMP practices and oversight by national and state pharmacy boards.