Guide · Updated 2026

How to Inject Wegovy

The Wegovy pen is designed to be simple, but the first injection is intimidating. Here's exactly what to do, in order.

TL;DR: Take the pen out of the fridge 15 minutes early. Inject into your abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Uncap, press against skin, push the button, hold for 6 seconds. Rotate sites weekly. Store spare pens in the fridge; in-use pens are room-temperature stable for up to 28 days.

Before you inject

Take the pen out of the fridge 15 minutes before use — cold medication stings.
Check the label: correct dose (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.7, or 2.4 mg) and not expired.
Look at the window: liquid should be clear and colorless. If cloudy or discolored, don't use it.
Wash your hands.

Injection sites

Abdomen: anywhere at least 2 inches from your belly button. Easiest, least painful for most people.
Front of thigh: mid-thigh, pinch the fat, inject at 90°.
Back of upper arm: works but usually needs help from someone else.

Rotate. Injecting the same spot every week can cause lumps (lipohypertrophy) and reduce absorption.

Step-by-step

Wipe the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it air-dry.
Pull the pen cap straight off. Do not remove the needle guard by hand.
Place the pen flat against your skin so the yellow window faces you.
Press firmly. You'll hear the first click as the injection starts.
Keep pressing. The yellow bar in the window moves. Count to six slowly.
You'll hear a second click. Hold for a full 6 more seconds to ensure the full dose delivers.
Lift the pen straight up off the skin. The needle retracts automatically.
Dispose of the pen in an FDA-cleared sharps container (or a rigid plastic detergent bottle if none available).

After the injection

A small drop of blood is normal — press with a cotton ball. Don't rub the site. Some redness or a small bump for a few hours is expected. Ice can help if the site itches.

Storage

Unused pens: refrigerator (36–46°F). Don't freeze.
Once in use: up to 28 days at room temperature (below 86°F) or refrigerated.
Travel: a small insulated bag with an ice pack works for up to 24 hours. Never check pens in luggage on a flight — cargo holds can freeze.

Common problems

Injection stings a lot: pen was too cold. Warm to room temperature next time.
Big bruise: hit a small vessel. Rotate sites and try again next week.
Bump or hard lump: possible lipohypertrophy — stop using that spot for 6–8 weeks.
Pen won't click: not pressed firmly enough or seal not broken. Read the user guide's troubleshooting page or call the manufacturer support line.

FAQ

Where do I inject Wegovy?

Abdomen (2 inches away from the belly button), front of thigh, or back of upper arm. Rotate sites weekly.

Does it hurt?

The needle is 8 mm and very thin. Most patients feel a small pinch or nothing at all. Injecting cold medication stings more — let the pen sit at room temperature 15 minutes first.

Can I inject on a full stomach?

Yes. Wegovy timing is independent of meals.

What if I miss a dose?

If it's been fewer than 48 hours, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 48 hours, skip and take the next dose on your usual day.

How long does one pen last?

Each Wegovy pen is single-dose (one injection per pen). A monthly box contains 4 pens.

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Educational content, not medical advice. Talk to a licensed clinician before starting or changing any medication.