Note: If you are an MD Exam patient, please refer to the patient portal for instructions specific to your meds

How to Use a Semaglutide Pen

Semaglutide is a medication commonly used for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Administering semaglutide injections is a straightforward process that can be done at home with proper training and guidance. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you administer semaglutide injections safely and effectively:

Please note: For MD Exam patients, please use the Patient Portal or the instructions sent with your medication to administer your injections. This guide is for prefilled pens, not the self-administered doses we use for compliance purposes. ‍

1. Gather Your Supplies:

‍Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary supplies:

• A pre-filled semaglutide pen
• Alcohol swabs
• A sharps container for safe disposal of needles
• A clean, dry surface for preparation

2. Wash Your Hands:

‍Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. This helps prevent infection during the injection process.

3. Prepare the Injection Site:

‍Choose an injection site on your stomach area (abdomen), thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites to prevent skin irritation. Use an alcohol swab to clean the chosen area and let it air dry.

4. Check the Pen:

‍Inspect the semaglutide pen for any visible damage or particles in the solution. Make sure the expiration date has not passed. If you notice any issues, do not use the pen and contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist.

 5. Prime the Pen (First Use Only):

‍If you're using the pen for the first time, or if it has not been used for a while, you need to prime it to ensure proper dosing. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for priming the pen.

 6. Attach the Needle:

‍Remove the cap from the semaglutide pen and screw on a new, sterile needle until it's firmly in place. Remove the outer needle cap, but keep the inner needle cap on until you're ready to inject.

 7. Check the Dose:

‍Turn the dose selector dial to the prescribed dose as instructed by your healthcare provider. Double-check that the correct dose is displayed in the dose window.

 8. Inject Semaglutide:

‍Pinch a fold of skin at the injection site. Insert the needle into the skin at a 90-degree angle or as directed by your healthcare provider. Press the injection button to deliver the medication. Hold the pen in place for a few seconds to ensure the full dose is administered.

 9. Remove the Needle:

‍After injecting, remove the needle from the skin and dispose of it safely in a sharps container. Do not recap the needle.

 10. Dispose of the Pen:

‍Replace the outer cap on the semaglutide pen and store it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Do not store the pen with the needle attached.

 11. Monitor for Side Effects:

‍Keep an eye out for any potential side effects after administering the injection. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent side effects.

 12. Record the Injection:

‍Keep track of the date, time, dose, and injection site in a journal or logbook. This information can be helpful for monitoring your progress and communicating with your healthcare provider.

Administering semaglutide injections may seem intimidating at first, but with practice and guidance from your healthcare provider, you can become comfortable with the process. Remember to follow these steps carefully and reach out to your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your semaglutide treatment.

Keep in mind these instructions are for the branded versions of semaglutide. Not all medications administered with a pen work the same way, nor do all versions of semaglutide. Anyone using generics, compounded versions, or other brands should use this information as a guideline rather than following each step exactly.