Have you recently been prescribed a GLP-1 weight loss medication like compounded semaglutide or compounded tirzepatide? Follow our step-by-step guide on how to inject semaglutide or tirzepatide.
This guide is for semaglutide or tirzepatide that comes in a vial and is injected with a syringe – not for name-brand autoinjector pens.
Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Injection Sites
Semaglutide and tirzepatide are administered as subcutaneous injections, which means injecting into a layer of fat underneath the skin. Finding a spot with fat instead of muscle is easier and lowers the risk of impacting a nerve or blood vessels. The three recommended spots are in the stomach, thigh and arm.1
Stomach
The stomach is a convenient location to inject because it is easy to reach and has a layer of fat. The suggested spot on the stomach is approximately 2 inches from the belly button.
Thigh
The thigh is another naturally fatty body part that is easy to reach. Inject into the front of the thigh, avoiding the inner thigh.
Upper Arm
Choose a spot between the elbow and shoulder to inject into the upper arm. This is a good choice for those who want a less visible spot.2
How Often to Rotate Injection Sites
Rotating to a different body part each week can help you avoid irritation, discomfort and changes in the skin at the injection site. Always follow your provider’s directions for specific injection instructions.3
Step-by-Step Semaglutide and Tirzepatide Injection Guide
When you receive your medication, you should have a vial of your prescribed medicine, alcohol wipes and enough syringes to last one month. Follow the step-by-step guide below or watch this video to properly inject your semaglutide or tirzepatide with a syringe and vial.
Drawing Your Medication
1. Check the medication label to ensure it matches the dosage prescribed by your provider.
2. Remove the lid from your vial.
3. With the syringe cap still on, pull back the plunger to the 20-mark (0.2 ml) on your syringe to fill it with air.
4. Remove the syringe cap, insert the needle into the rubber top of the vial and push all the air into the vial.
5. Turn the vial upside down and pull the plunger back to the prescribed amount of medication (e.g., 20 units.).
6. If air bubbles are present, tap the syringe with your finger until the bubbles rise, then gently push the plunger to push the air back into the vial.
Injecting Your Medication
1. Rotate your injection site to be at least 1.5 inches away from the last site.
2. Cleanse the chosen area with an alcohol wipe and let it dry.
3. Pinch a 2-inch skin fold between your thumb and index finger.
4. Hold the syringe like a pencil or dart, and insert the needle at a 45- to 90-degree angle into the pinched skin.
5. Hold the syringe with one hand and slowly push the plunger to inject the medication until it's fully depressed.
6. Remove the needle and gently hold an alcohol pad on the injection site without rubbing.
What to Expect After a Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Injection
After a semaglutide or tirzepatide injection, you may experience temporary mild itchiness or redness at the injection site. If the redness is severe or you experience pain at the injection site, please seek medical attention immediately. There is a low risk for allergic reactions with GLP-1 medications.4
You may experience side effects while taking GLP-1 medications. If side effects become severe or bothersome, please talk to your provider.
Common side effects of semaglutides include:5
Nausea.
Vomiting.
Diarrhea.
Abdominal pain.
Constipation.
Heartburn.
Burping.
Common side effects of tirzepatides include:6
Nausea.
Diarrhea.
Decreased appetite.
Vomiting.
Constipation.
Upset stomach.
Injection Tips and Reminders
Here are a few tips and reminders to help you have the best experience while using GLP-1 weight loss medications.
Semaglutide and tirzepatide should be injected once per week, on the same day each week. The injection can happen any time of day. You can take these medications with or without food.7, 8
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Get StartedSafe Needle Disposal
After your injections, you will need to dispose of the syringe safely. The best option is to put the needle into a dedicated sharps container immediately. Disposing of sharps containers and used needles will vary depending on your state and city.
The FDA recommends looking into the following options for safe needle disposal:9
Dropbox or supervised collection sites.
Household hazardous waste collection sites.
Mail-back programs.
Residential special waste pickup services.
Medication Storage
Tirzepatide and semaglutide injections should be stored in the refrigerator (between 36 and 46 degrees Fahrenheit). Keep tirzepatide in its original packaging until use to protect it from light. Store your medication only as directed.Keep medications and injection supplies out of reach of children.10
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of semaglutide and the next dose is more than two days away, use the missed dose as soon as possible. If you miss a dose of semaglutide injection and the next scheduled dose is less than two days away, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. If you miss a dose of semaglutide injection for more than two weeks, contact your provider.11
If you miss a dose of tirzepatide, take it as soon as you remember it within four days after the missed dose. However, if more than four days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not inject two doses within three days of each other.12
How Long for Semaglutide or Tirzepatide Injection Results
Results from semaglutide and tirzepatide will vary among individuals. Your genetics, diet and lifestyle all contribute to your weight loss results. In general, the following is what you can expect for a GLP-1 timeline.
Weeks One-Four
You may start to notice a reduction in appetite and an increased feeling of fullness after eating.
Weeks Five-20
As your dose increases, you may notice more influence on your appetite. Weight loss results may start to be noticeable in this phase.
Weeks 20 and beyond
Your weight loss journey can continue with semaglutide or tirzepatide until you reach your weight loss goals. If you continue with a regular medication schedule and a nutritious diet, these medications can lead to sustained weight loss and improved metabolic health.13
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