How to Inject Semaglutide
Introduction
In recent years, semaglutide has emerged as a revolutionary weight loss aid, offering hope for those looking to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes, this medication has gained widespread acclaim for its ability to facilitate weight loss by reducing appetite and mitigating cravings.
In this article, we'll guide you through the process of using semaglutide for weight loss, covering how to inject the medication, when to do so, how to store it, and more.
How to Inject Semaglutide for Weight Loss
To inject semaglutide safely and effectively, follow these steps:
Wash Your Hands: Begin by washing your hands with soap and water to minimize your risk of infection.
Prepare the Injection Site: Choose an injection site on your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Avoid areas that are bruised, tender, or scarred. Clean the site with an alcohol swab and allow it to dry.
Prepare the Semaglutide Pen: Remove the pen cap. If using a new pen, attach a new needle by peeling off the paper tab and screwing the needle onto the pen. Remove the outer needle cap and set it aside, but do not discard it. Remove the inner needle cap and discard it.
Check the Flow: If using a new pen, check the flow before your first injection. To do this, hold the pen with the needle pointing up and tap the side of the pen so any air bubbles rise to the top. Press the dose selector until it stops and a drop of medication appears at the needle tip. If no drop appears, repeat this step until it does.
Select the Dose: Turn the dose selector until the correct dose is dialed in (as prescribed by your healthcare provider).
Inject the Dose: Gently pinch the prepared skin area to create a fold. Insert the needle fully into the skin fold at a 90-degree angle. Press the dose button until it stops.
Dispose of the Needle: Remove the needle from your skin. Use the outer needle cap to unscrew the needle from the pen safely and dispose of it in a sharps container.
Recap the Pen: Replace the cap on the semaglutide pen and store it as directed.
Where Is the Best Place to Inject Semaglutide for Weight Loss?
When using semaglutide for weight loss, it's recommended that you inject the medication into areas where fat is accessible. These areas include the abdomen (at least two inches away from the navel), the thighs, and the upper arms. It's important to rotate your injection site with each dose to prevent your skin from becoming too tough or fatty tissue from building up, both of which can affect how well the medication is absorbed.
When Is the Best Time of Day to Inject Semaglutide?
You can administer semaglutide injections once per week at any time of day, with or without a meal. The key is to perform them according to a regular schedule.
How Often Should You Rotate Injection Sites?
Rotating injection sites is crucial when using semaglutide for weight loss, as it can help prevent lipodystrophy (changes in skin texture) and localized irritation. Generally, it's recommended that individuals using semaglutide rotate their injection sites weekly, or with each dose. Avoid injecting into the same spot twice in a row, and aim to space each injection at least one inch away from the previous site.
What Happens if You Inject Too Much Semaglutide?
Injecting too much semaglutide can lead to several adverse effects. Specifically, overdosing on this medication can cause severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Additionally, a surplus of semaglutide in the body can cause dehydration, which can lead to dizziness, weakness, and kidney problems.
Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, may also occur, especially in patients taking other diabetes medications. Severe hypoglycemia can lead to confusion, unconsciousness, or seizures. For these reasons, always follow your doctor's instructions when using semaglutide for weight loss.
How Do You Store Semaglutide?
Semaglutide injections must be stored properly to retain their effectiveness. Prior to using them, keep the injection pens in the refrigerator at a temperature between 36°F and 46°F. Avoid freezing them, and if any medication does freeze, discard it.
Once you've started using a pen, it may be kept at room temperature or in the refrigerator for up to four weeks. It's essential to keep the pen cap on each needle when it's not in use to protect the medication from light. In addition, always check the medication's solution before use. It should be clear and colorless and particle-free.
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- https://thenp2go.com/where-and-how-to-inject-semaglutide-a-comprehensive-guide/
- https://diet.mayoclinic.org/us/blog/2024/how-to-inject-semaglutide-for-weight-loss/#:~:text=Stomach%3A%20The%20stomach%20is%20a,inches%20from%20the%20belly%20button.
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/proper-use/drg-20406730#:~:text=Use%20this%20medicine%20on%20the,day%2C%20with%20or%20without%20meals.
- https://www.healthline.com/health/where-do-you-inject-semaglutide#injection-sites
- https://www.health.com/ozempic-wegovy-overdose-8550146
- https://univrx.com/does-compounded-semaglutide-need-to-be-refrigerated-get-storage-tips/#:~:text=Storing%20Semaglutide%20At%20Home&text=Always%20store%20your%20unopened%20semaglutide,can%20affect%20the%20medication's%20potency.
April 27, 2024
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Avidon Appel
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