Patient Education for Starting Wegovy (Semaglutide)

Injection Technique and Administration

The American College of Cardiology recommends instructing patients to follow the same recommendations used for insulin injections regarding needle length, site selection, and rotation schemes to prevent lipodystrophy (tissue swelling/nodules), which can affect medication absorption 1, 2
Patients should be taught to rotate injection sites systematically to prevent lipodystrophy (tissue swelling/nodules), which can affect medication absorption 1, 2
Although the risk of lipohypertrophy is considerably less with GLP-1 receptor agonists compared to insulin, palpable injection site subcutaneous nodules have been reported with semaglutide 1
Proper injection technique, including checking for air bubbles and proper disposal of needles in certified waste receptacles, should be demonstrated to patients 1

The American College of Cardiology informs patients that transient nausea and vomiting are relatively common side effects that typically improve over time 3
Nausea can be minimized by starting with the lowest dose, up-titrating gradually, and eating smaller portions 3
Gastrointestinal symptoms are usually self-limited with longer-acting GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide 3

The American Heart Association advises women of childbearing potential about the potential risk to a fetus and the need for effective contraception during treatment 4

Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor response to therapy and adjust treatment as needed 1
Patients should be encouraged to maintain a log of any side effects experienced for discussion at follow-up visits 5
Continuing lifestyle modifications (diet and physical activity) alongside medication therapy is crucial 5