Hi Faith,
I've been on Copaxone for over 3 years now and have felt good, knock wood. I do mine before bed, don't use alcohol but I do warm it under my arm prior to shooting it. Never put heat or ice on before or after.

Normally I use the autoinject although sometimes when shooting my stomach I do free hand because I don't have much fat there and it seems to swell. Rarely use my arms because not much fat there. I shoot my thighs, butt and hips the most. Sometimes it hurts but most times it doesn't and I can't put my finger on why or when it will sting. No biggie though once you get used to the feeling.

I guess thats all. Wish you the best of luck with it! Jules