Quick Answer
Wegovy is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) in three approved areas: the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. You should rotate injection sites each week to prevent skin irritation and ensure consistent absorption. Do not inject into the same spot twice in a row.
The injection is given once weekly, on the same day each week, at any time of day.
Key Points
- Inject into abdomen (at least 2 inches from belly button), thigh, or upper arm
- Rotate injection sites every week
- Do not inject into scars, moles, or bruised skin
- Change the needle for each injection
- Inject at the same time each week for consistency
Approved Injection Sites
1. Abdomen
The stomach area is the most common injection site.
How to inject:
- Choose a spot at least 2 inches away from your belly button
- Avoid the waistline (where your pants sit)
- Pinch the skin between your thumb and fingers
- Insert the needle at a 45-degree angle
Pros:
- Easy to reach and see
- Generally less painful than other areas
- Absorbs medication well
Cons:
- Can be irritated by waistbands
- May have more subcutaneous fat in some people
Products for injection:
- Alcohol prep pads - clean injection sites
- Sharps container - safe needle disposal
2. Thigh
The front or outer thigh is another option.
How to inject:
- Use the front or outer thigh (not inner thigh)
- Choose an area about 4 inches above the knee
- Pinch the skin and inject at 45 degrees
Pros:
- Easy access
- Good for people who want to avoid stomach area
Cons:
- May be more sensitive than abdomen
- Can be irritated by tight clothing
3. Upper Arm
The back of the upper arm (triceps area) is also approved.
How to inject:
- Use the back of the arm, about halfway between shoulder and elbow
- May need someone else to help with this site
- Pinch skin and inject at 45 degrees
Pros:
- Alternative if other sites are irritated
- Often less visible area
Cons:
- Harder to reach yourself
- Thinner skin may make injection more sensitive
How to Rotate Injection Sites
Why Rotation Matters
Injecting into the same spot repeatedly can cause:
- Skin irritation
- Hardened areas (lipohypertrophy)
- Poor absorption
- Increased pain
Rotation Strategy
Weekly rotation example:
| Week | Site |
|---|---|
| Week 1 | Left side of abdomen |
| Week 2 | Right side of abdomen |
| Week 3 | Left thigh |
| Week 4 | Right thigh |
| Week 5 | Left upper arm |
| Week 6 | Right upper arm |
| Week 7 | Back to left side of abdomen |
You can also rotate within a site. For example, move your abdominal injection 1-2 inches each week within the left or right side.
Tracking
Keep a simple log of where you injected:
- Write it in a notebook
- Use a phone note
- Some people mark a calendar
This helps you remember where you injected last week.
Step-by-Step Injection
1. Gather Supplies
- Wegovy pen
- New needle (if using a reusable pen)
- Alcohol swab
- Sharps container
2. Wash Your Hands
Use soap and water. Dry completely.
3. Check the Pen
- Check expiration date
- Make sure the solution is clear and colorless
- Do not use if cloudy or discolored
4. Attach Needle (if needed)
Some Wegovy pens are pre-filled single-use. Others require attaching a needle.
5. Prime the Pen
If required, follow the pen instructions to prime. This ensures the needle is not blocked.
6. Select and Clean Site
- Choose your site
- Clean with alcohol swab
- Let air dry completely
7. Pinch Skin
Pinch a fold of skin between your thumb and fingers. This creates a cushion of fat for the injection.
8. Inject
- Insert needle at 45-degree angle
- Push plunger slowly and steadily
- Hold for 5-10 seconds after plunger is all the way down
9. Withdraw Needle
Pull straight out. Do not rub the site.
10. Dispose of Needle
Place needle in sharps container. Never reuse needles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Injecting Too Close to Belly Button
Stay at least 2 inches away from your navel. The area near the belly button has more nerve endings and can be more painful.
Injecting into Muscle
Wegovy should go into the fat layer under the skin, not into muscle. If you have very little body fat, inject at a 45-degree angle and use shorter needles (4mm or 6mm).
Reusing Needles
Always use a new needle. Reused needles:
- Are dull and more painful
- Can cause infection
- May not deliver full dose
Rubbing After Injection
Do not rub the injection site. Rubbing can irritate the skin and affect absorption.
Injecting into Irritated Skin
If an area is red, bruised, or irritated, choose a different site. Wait until skin heals before using that spot again.
What If It Hurts?
Normal Sensation
You may feel a slight pinch or sting. This should last only a few seconds.
Reducing Pain
- Let alcohol dry completely before injecting
- Inject at room temperature (cold medication can sting more)
- Relax the muscle at the injection site
- Use a smaller needle (4mm or 6mm)
- Inject slowly
When to Worry
Contact your doctor if:
- Pain lasts more than a few minutes
- Site becomes red, swollen, or warm
- You see pus or discharge
- You develop a fever
Storing Wegovy
- Store in the refrigerator (36-46°F / 2-8°C)
- Do not freeze
- If needed, can be stored at room temperature for up to 28 days
- Protect from light
- Keep pen cap on when not in use
Questions to Ask Your Doctor
- Which injection site do you recommend I start with?
- How do I know if I am injecting correctly?
- What should I do if I bleed after injecting?
- Can I change my injection day?
- What if I miss a dose?
The Bottom Line
Wegovy is injected into the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites weekly to prevent irritation and ensure consistent absorption.
Key reminders:
- Stay 2+ inches from belly button
- Pinch skin and inject at 45 degrees
- Never reuse needles
- Track your sites each week
If you are unsure about technique, ask your pharmacist or doctor to demonstrate. Proper injection helps the medication work effectively and reduces side effects.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always follow the instructions provided with your medication and consult your healthcare provider if you have questions.