How to Safely Inject Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication that helps with weight loss. It’s administered through subcutaneous injections, meaning it is injected under the skin. To ensure you get the full dose and avoid complications, it’s important to follow the right steps when injecting Wegovy.

Injection Sites for Wegovy

Wegovy should be injected into one of three areas of your body:

• The lower abdomen (at least 2 inches away from your belly button)
• The upper arm
• The upper front part of your thigh

There is no “best” spot; all of these locations are equally effective. You can use the same general area (like the abdomen or thigh) each week but should rotate specific spots to avoid irritation. For instance, alternate between your left and right thighs each week, or inject into the same thigh but choose a new spot a few inches away from the previous injection.

It’s important to avoid injecting into areas with stretch marks, scars, or bruising. Also, do not inject into tender, hard, or discolored skin. If a particular area feels too soft, consider using a firmer location like the upper thigh. Standing up while injecting into the abdomen can also help make the skin tauter.

Before you begin, discuss with your doctor or healthcare provider to learn the best injection sites for you and how to perform the injection correctly.

Steps for Injecting Wegovy

Before using the pen, ensure the following:

• The pen is undamaged.
• The drug has not passed its expiration date.
• The liquid visible in the pen’s window appears clear and colorless.

To ensure you administer the full dose, follow the instructions provided with your Wegovy pen. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Clean the injection site with alcohol or soap and water, and allow it to dry.
2. Remove the cap from the pen.
3. Press the needle cover firmly against your skin.
4. Apply pressure until the yellow indicator stops moving. You’ll hear two clicks:
   • The initial click indicates that the injection process has begun.
   • The second click means the injection is still going.
5. Continue pressing until the yellow bar stops moving (approximately 5 to 10 seconds).
6. Slowly remove the pen from your skin.
7. If there is any bleeding, press a cotton ball or gauze pad gently on the spot.

If you release the pen too early or don’t press it firmly enough during the injection, you may not receive the full dose, and you may notice liquid leaking or pooling on your skin. If this happens, do not restart the injection, as the needle cover locks once it’s removed from your skin.

Dispose of the used pen immediately in an approved sharps disposal container. If you don’t have one, use a thick, leak-resistant plastic container with a tight-fitting lid. Label the container as hazardous waste. 

When to Inject Wegovy

Wegovy is administered once a week. The time of day can be flexible, as it does not need to be taken with meals. You can change the day you take the injection, as long as it’s at least two days after your previous dose.

Proper Storage of Wegovy

To maintain the medication’s effectiveness, store Wegovy properly:

• Refrigerate it at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
• Never freeze Wegovy.
• Keep the pen in its original container to protect it from light.

  The pen should be discarded if it has been:

• Frozen
• Exposed to temperatures above 86°F (30°C)
• Left outside the refrigerator for 28 days or more
• Exposed to light

If you plan to travel with Wegovy, make sure you know how to store it safely and handle any potential issues, such as missed doses or pen malfunctions.

Managing Injection Discomfort

The Wegovy pen uses a small needle, and most people don’t feel pain during the injection. However, if you’re sensitive to the cold fluid, you might experience some discomfort. To minimize this, you can remove the pen from the fridge an hour or two before your injection. Allowing the medication to reach room temperature can help reduce any discomfort during the injection.

Summary

Injecting Wegovy is easy once you know the steps. Choose one of three injection sites (abdomen, upper arm, or thigh), rotate locations, and ensure you follow the instructions carefully. Press the pen firmly against your skin until the yellow indicator stops moving, and dispose of the pen properly afterward.