HomeQ&AHow do you inject a GLP-1 safely?

Evidence-graded answer

How do you inject a GLP-1 safely?

AReviewed by Jane Novak, MD, MPH· Updated 2026-05-31

Rotate sites between abdomen (≥2 inches from navel), front of thigh, and back of upper arm. Inject at room temperature (cold pens sting). Pinch a fold of skin, insert at 90°, hold 6 seconds after the click, withdraw straight. Dispose in a sharps container.

Site rotation prevents lipohypertrophy (lumps under the skin that reduce absorption). Pick a new spot each week.

Bring the pen to room temp for 15-30 minutes before injection — reduces sting significantly.

A small bruise or itch at the site is normal; persistent redness or swelling warrants a call to your prescriber.

Source: Wegovy prescribing information, accessdata.fda.gov

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