Taking your first injection can feel daunting, but with the right guidance, you'll find it's simpler than you might expect. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from preparation to disposal.
Before you begin
What you'll need:
- Your medication pen (Wegovy or Mounjaro)
- The needle that came with your medication
- Alcohol swab
- Sharps bin for safe disposal
- A clean, flat surface
- A quiet moment without distractions
Choose your injection site:
- Abdomen (stomach area) - at least 5 cm from your belly button
- Thigh - front or outer part of your upper leg
- Upper arm - back of the upper arm (may require assistance)
The abdomen is often easiest for self-injection for beginners.
Step 1: Preparation
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
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Check your medication:
- Ensure it's not expired
- Verify it's the correct pen and dose
- Make sure the liquid is clear and colourless (not cloudy or discoloured)
- Remove the pen cap by pulling it straight off
- Look through the pen window to confirm the solution is clear and particle-free
Step 2: Attaching the needle
- Take a new needle from its packaging
- Remove the paper tab from the outer needle cap
- Push the needle straight onto the pen and twist until it's secure
- Remove the outer needle cap and set it aside (you'll need it later)
- Remove the inner needle cap and dispose of it
Step 3: Performing a flow check (First-time use only)
This step is only required the first time you use each new pen:
- Turn the dose selector until the flow check symbol (..) lines up with the pointer
- Hold the pen with the needle pointing upward
- Press and hold the dose button until the counter returns to 0
- Look for a drop of liquid at the needle tip - this confirms the pen is working properly
- If no drop appears, repeat once more. If still no drop, try a new needle
Step 4: Setting your dose
- Turn the dose selector until your prescribed dose appears in the window
- You'll hear clicking sounds as you turn - the number of clicks doesn't indicate the dose
- Make sure the dose pointer lines up exactly with your prescribed dose
Step 5: Injecting the medication
- Clean the injection site with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely
- Pinch a fold of skin at your chosen injection site (for abdomen or thigh)
- Insert the needle straight into your skin at a 90-degree angle
- Press and hold the dose button until the counter shows 0
- Keep the needle in place and slowly count to 6
- Release the button and remove the needle from your skin
Step 6: After the injection
- Place the outer needle cap carefully back on the needle (don't use fingers to recap)
- Unscrew the needle from the pen
- Dispose of the needle in your sharps bin
- Replace the pen cap on your pen
- Store your pen according to instructions (in the refrigerator or at room temperature)
Common questions and tips
Will it hurt? Most people report a small pinch that lasts only a moment. The needle is very thin and designed for minimal discomfort.
What if I see air bubbles? Small air bubbles in the pen are normal and won't affect your dose.
What if I'm nervous? Take a deep breath. The first injection is always the most challenging. Consider having someone with you for support, or watch our injection video in the app before starting.
What if I forget a step? If you're unsure at any point, don't proceed. Contact our Care Team for guidance.
Tips for reducing discomfort:
- Inject at room temperature (if your pen has been refrigerated, take it out 15-30 minutes before injecting)
- Relax the muscles in your injection area
- Insert the needle quickly and smoothly
- Don't change direction during insertion or removal
When to seek help
Contact our Care Team if:
- You're unsure about any step in the process
- You believe you may have administered the wrong dose
- You experience significant discomfort during or after injection
Submit a request for assistance with any questions or concerns.
Remember, each injection gets easier with practice. You've got this!