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How to Inject Semaglutide

How to Inject Semaglutide
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In the world of medical weight loss, semaglutide has emerged as a game-changer. But to enjoy the benefits of this medication, you must administer it properly. Whether you’re new to using semaglutide or seeking to refine your technique, this article will break down the process of injecting semaglutide so you can administer the drug safely and effectively.

Where Is the Best Place to Inject Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

Semaglutide is typically administered through subcutaneous injection, meaning it’s injected into the fatty layer just beneath the skin. The most common and effective areas for semaglutide injections are parts of the body where this fatty layer is most accessible. These include the stomach, the thigh, and the upper arm. 1

How to Inject Semaglutide for Weight Loss Step By Step

  • Prepare the Injection Site: Choose a clean area on your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Avoid areas within two inches of the navel and any skin that is scarred, bruised, or tender.
  • Sanitize: Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and allow it to air-dry. This will reduce your risk of infection.
  • Prepare the Injection: If using a pen, ensure it’s at room temperature. Remove the pen cap and confirm the solution is clear and colorless. 2 Then attach a new needle to your pen.
  • Check the Flow: Before your first injection with each new pen, turn the dose selector to the flow check symbol. Then, pointing the needle upward, press the dose button until “0 mg” appears. If a drop of medication appears at the tip of the needle, the pen is ready to be used. 3
  • Set Your Dose: Turn the dose selector on the semaglutide pen to the dose prescribed by your doctor.
  • Inject the Medication: Pinch a fold of skin at the prepared site. Insert the needle fully at a 90-degree angle. Press the dose button until the pen stops delivering the medication.
  • Dispose of the Needle Safely: Remove the needle from your skin. Use a sharps disposal container to dispose of the used needle.
  • Monitor for Side Effects: After the injection, pay attention to any reactions you have at the injection site, as well as any general side effects. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or unusual symptoms.

Things to Avoid When Injecting Semaglutide

When using semaglutide for weight loss, it’s crucial to follow best practices to ensure the drug’s effectiveness and minimize potential side effects. Here are some key things to avoid:

  • Repeatedly Injecting into the Same Site: To reduce the risk of tissue damage and irritation,4 rotate injection sites between your abdomen, thigh, and upper arms.
  • Using without Medical Supervision: Always use semaglutide under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
  • Ignoring Hygiene Practices: Always wash your hands before handling the injection, and ensure the injection site and the needle are clean to avoid infection.
  • Skipping or Doubling Doses: Be sure to adhere to your prescribed dosage and injection schedule. If you miss a dose, don’t double the next one to “catch up.”
Things to Avoid When Injecting Semaglutide

What Happens if You Inject Too Much Semaglutide?

Injecting too much semaglutide can lead to severe side effects. The symptoms of an overdose 5 include nausea, vomiting, severe stomach pain, rapid heart rate, and dizziness. In extreme cases, an overdose can also cause dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance due to excessive vomiting and diarrhea.

If you suspect you’ve overdosed on semaglutide, it’s crucial to seek medical attention right away.

How Often Do You Inject Semaglutide for Weight Loss?

When used for weight loss, the standard semaglutide dosing schedule calls for weekly subcutaneous injections 6. That said, be sure to consult your doctor to discuss your dosing schedule before using semaglutide for weight loss.

Should I Inject Semaglutide in the Morning or at Night?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer as to what time of day you should inject semaglutide for weight loss.

Injecting semaglutide in the morning could be advantageous for those who experience gastrointestinal side effects. Conversely, administering the medication at night might be preferable for individuals who observe minimal side effects or find that the drug helps mitigate their nighttime cravings.

Ultimately, it’s recommended you consult your doctor to determine what time you should inject semaglutide.

How Often Should You Rotate Injection Sites for Semaglutide?

Rotating injection sites for semaglutide is crucial to ensuring the medication’s efficacy and minimizing your risk of tissue damage. It’s recommended you rotate sites with each dose 7, which means changing where you inject semaglutide each week.

Conclusion

Successfully losing weight with semaglutide involves more than just administering injections–it requires attention to detail and adherence to best practices. Remember–injection technique matters, as does the timing and location of your injections. Whether you’re just starting on your semaglutide journey or fine-tuning your approach, keep the aforementioned tips in mind to maximize the benefits of your treatment.

If you’re seeking to lose weight, the Sanctuary Wellness Institute can connect you with a weight loss doctor who can evaluate you for semaglutide. If they deem you eligible, we can deliver your medication directly to your home so you can administer it yourself. Better yet, the participants of our medical weight loss program enjoy ongoing physician supervision and support from our care team.

Book an appointment today to discover whether semaglutide is right for you.

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