Semaglutide injection, known by the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy, is a widely-used medication prescribed for individuals suffering from diabetes, obesity or being overweight. Administered as a weekly injection, Semaglutide requires proper knowledge of injection techniques.

Whether you are new to semaglutide or have been using this medication for a while, it is important to understand the fundamentals of injecting it. This includes priming a new pen, changing the needle each time and ensuring the correct dosage. Additionally, choosing the appropriate injection site is essential. 

So, today, here in this blog post, we are going to talk about the comprehensive guide on everything that you need to know about injecting semaglutide.

What is Semaglutide and How It Works?

Semaglutide is a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, mimicking the GLP-1 hormone. This hormone helps to lower the blood sugar level, boost insulin production and signal the brain to reduce hunger.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration or FDA has approved Semaglutide as an injectable drug under the brand names Wegovy and Ozempic.

Ozempic is FDA-approved for lowering blood sugar levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes. It is also used in reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack in those with type 2 diabetes and existing heart diseases.

Wegovy is the only semaglutide brand specifically approved for weight loss management.

Semaglutide is prescribed to men and women, especially those with a BMI of 30 or higher, or those with a BMI of 27 or higher who also have weight-related conditions such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes or high cholesterol.

For optimal results, Semaglutide injection is recommended alongside a healthy diet and exercise.

Selecting the Best Semaglutide Injection Site

The effectiveness of semaglutide injections largely depends on selecting the appropriate injection site. The recommended areas for subcutaneous injections include the stomach, thigh, or the back of the upper arm. These regions provide an optimal layer of subcutaneous fat, which ensures efficient absorption of the medication.

Stomach: This is a commonly recommended site due to its large surface area and accessibility. The subcutaneous fat layer here is ideal for absorbing semaglutide efficiently. When injecting in the stomach, choose a spot approximately two inches away from the belly button.

Thigh: The front of the thigh is another suitable area, as it has sufficient subcutaneous fat. Make sure to avoid the inner thigh and select a spot on the front.

Upper Arm: The back of the upper arm is a good option for those who prefer a less visible injection site. Aim for an area between the shoulder and elbow.

By carefully rotating injection sites within these recommended areas, you can enhance the drug’s absorption and reduce the risk of skin irritation or other complications.

A Step-by-Step Guide of Semaglutide Injection

Gather Your Supplies:

Collect all necessary items, including your medication, syringe, alcohol swab, needle, and a sharps container.

Prepare the Injection Site:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Choose an injection site—either the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Clean the chosen area with an alcohol swab and allow it to air dry.

Prepare the Medication:

Remove the top seal from the medication vial and wipe it with alcohol. Remove the orange cap from the needle. Hold the syringe as you would a pen or dart and insert the needle perpendicularly into the center of the rubber stopper. 

Invert the syringe and vial together and ensure the needle tip is immersed in the liquid. Push the plunger to administer the prescribed dose. Once the correct amount of liquid is drawn, remove the syringe from the vial.

Administer the Medication:

Hold the pen like a pencil or syringe with your thumb on the injection button. Remove the inner needle cap. Pinch a fold of skin at the cleaned injection site. Insert the needle at a 90-degree angle for abdominal injections, or at a 45 to 90-degree angle for thigh or upper arm injections. Press the injection button firmly and hold until the dose counter reads “0.” 

Keep the needle in place for a few seconds post-injection to ensure complete delivery of the dose, then release the injection button and remove the needle from the skin.

Dispose of the Pen and Needle:

Replace the outer needle cap on the pen and unscrew the needle. Dispose of the needle in a sharps container as per local regulations. Replace the pen cap and store it safely, out of reach of children and pets.

Subcutaneous semaglutide injections may cause mild discomfort due to their administration directly beneath the skin.

The Bottom Line

Integrating semaglutide injections into your weight-loss plan requires careful attention to proper injection sites and techniques. Always follow the instructions given by your healthcare provider. If you have any concerns or questions about semaglutide or its use, seek professional advice.

Semaglutide injections can assist in weight management. They should be used in conjunction with a nutrition and lifestyle program. Here at Precision Telemed, we provide personalized weight-loss medications and offer consultation support in establishing sustainable healthy habits for long-term weight management.