Wegovy (semaglutide) is an FDA-approved injectable prescription medicine used for chronic weight management in adults with excess body weight or obesity. It supports a structured weight loss plan, including a reduced calorie meal plan and increased physical activity. Here’s your complete guide on how to inject Wegovy the right way — safely, efficiently, and with confidence.
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What Is Wegovy?
Wegovy is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, meaning it mimics a natural hormone in your body to help regulate appetite. It’s delivered through an injectable pen once a week and gradually increases to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. Many patients consider it a helpful weight loss injection as part of their long-term health strategy.
People with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above, or 27 with weight related medical problems, may qualify for treatment. Your body mass index is a key factor your doctor will assess before prescribing Wegovy. If you have a history of diabetic retinopathy, make sure your provider is aware before starting.
Taking Wegovy consistently and as prescribed is key to achieving the best results. Your doctor or healthcare provider can guide you based on your progress and symptoms.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Wegovy Injection
Before starting your first dose, always consult a healthcare provider or healthcare professional. Here’s a breakdown of the injection process:
1. Choose the Right Injection Site
You can inject Wegovy into the:
- Upper arm (back area, needs assistance)
- Upper thigh (front part of the leg)
- Lower stomach (at least 2 inches from your belly button)
These injection sites must be rotated each week to avoid irritation. The injection site you choose should not have stretch marks, scars, or bruises. Make sure your injection site is clean and dry before beginning. Your chosen injection site can impact absorption and comfort, so always choose wisely.
Tip: If an area feels soft or difficult to use, try a more firm injection site like the upper leg or upper thigh. Avoid any injection site that feels tender, hard, or discolored. Reusing the same upper leg area too often may cause irritation.
2. Prepare the Pen
- Check the expiration date and inspect the pen window. The medicine should appear clear and colorless. If the pen window is cloudy or has particles, do not use it. Confirm the dose counter is set correctly before proceeding.
- Use a new needle each time.
- Wash your hands and clean the injection site with an alcohol swab. Let it dry completely.
- Confirm the wegovy pen is intact before use. The wegovy injection pen should be handled with care.
3. Start the Injection
- Remove the pen cap and attach the needle cover (if required).
- Hold the wegovy pen firmly against the skin.
- Look at the dose counter to verify the dose amount. If the dose counter does not move during the injection, the pen may be faulty.
- Press and hold the dose button until the yellow bar starts moving.
- Keep applying pressure until the yellow bar stops moving — this means you’ve delivered the full dose.
- Continue applying pressure to avoid incomplete delivery. You must maintain firm contact to ensure successful medication delivery.
- Wait a few seconds, then slowly lift the pen off the skin.
- Reattach the pen cap for safe disposal. Never lose the pen cap, as it helps protect others from accidental contact.
If you release early, the entire injection may not be completed.
4. After the Injection
- Use a cotton ball or gauze pad to cover the site if there’s minor bleeding.
- Dispose of used pens, needles, and needle covers in a tight-fitting lid container labeled as hazardous waste. You can also carry a portable tight-fitting lid container for safe disposal when traveling.
- Never reuse pens. Once the needle cover locks, the device can’t be used again.
- Store your wegovy pen as recommended. The wegovy pen should always be refrigerated and protected from light to maintain potency. If the medicine appears cloudy or discolored at any time, do not use it. Check that the medicine appears as a clear liquid before every use.
How to Inject Wegovy Correctly
Learning how to inject Wegovy can seem intimidating, but the process becomes easier with routine. Be sure to hold the wegovy pen straight and firm until the yellow bar stops moving to confirm a successful dose. If the medicine appears abnormal at any step, pause and consult your provider.
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How Often Should You Inject Wegovy?
Take Wegovy once a week on the same day and around the same time. It can be taken with or without food. If you need to change your injection day, make sure your next dose is at least 2 days apart from the last one.
For best results, take each dose on the same day of the week, such as every Monday or Friday.
Missed a Dose?
- If it’s within 5 days, take it as soon as possible.
- If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and resume on your regular schedule.
Never double your dose.
Wegovy Dosing Schedule
| Week | Dose |
| 1–4 | 0.25 mg |
| 5–8 | 0.5 mg |
| 9–12 | 1 mg |
| 13–16 | 1.7 mg |
| 17+ | 2.4 mg (Maintenance Dose) |
The preset dose increases gradually to help reduce side effects and allow your body to adjust.
Wegovy Injection Tips
- Always store wegovy pens in the refrigerator (36°F to 46°F / 2°C to 8°C).
- Do not freeze Wegovy.
- Avoid direct light by keeping it in its original packaging.
- Use within 28 days if stored at room temperature (under 86°F / 30°C).
- Don’t use if the wegovy pen is cracked or the medication appears cloudy.
Using the wegovy pen properly helps maximize the effects of this treatment and maintain consistent weight loss progress.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wegovy Injections
How do I know if I injected Wegovy correctly?
If you kept the pen firmly against the skin until the yellow bar stops moving, you’ve likely received the full dose.
Where is the best spot to inject Wegovy?
There’s no best site — the upper thigh, upper arm, and lower stomach all work well. Rotate locations to minimize skin irritation. Choose a clean and dry injection site each time.
Is there a wrong way to inject Wegovy?
Yes. Pulling away too early, injecting into a vein or muscle, or not following the dosing schedule can reduce effectiveness or cause side effects.
Is it better to inject Wegovy in the thigh or stomach?
Both work equally well. Choose whichever is more comfortable and accessible for you, and make sure the injection site is prepared properly.
Who Should Not Take Wegovy?
Wegovy may not be suitable for people with:
- Medullary thyroid carcinoma (personal or family history)
- Multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2
- A history of diabetic retinopathy
- Low blood sugar or kidney problems
- A known allergy to semaglutide containing products
Do not take if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Safety Tips
- Always read the medication guide.
- Never use Wegovy with other semaglutide containing products.
- Talk to your healthcare provider if you experience nausea, vomiting, or vision changes.
- Report any weight related medical problems.
- If you experience problems injecting, speak with your doctor.
- Be sure your wegovy pen is stored securely between doses.
- Prepare the wegovy pen fully before each injection.
What to Do Next
Taking Wegovy is just one part of your weight loss journey. Combine it with a reduced calorie diet, regular physical activity, and routine check-ins with your provider to stay on track. Many people have found success using Wegovy for weight loss, especially when committed to long-term changes.
If you’re looking for a guided approach to weight loss, reach out to our team today.
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Disclaimer
This blog is for informational & educational purposes only, and does not intend to substitute any professional medical advice or consultation. For any health related concerns, please consult with your physician, or call 911.
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About The Author
Dr. Syra Hanif M.D.Board Certified Primary Care Physician
Dr. Syra Hanif is a board-certified Primary Care Physician (PCP) dedicated to providing compassionate, patient-centered healthcare.
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