How to Prevent Injection Site Discomfort from GLP-1 Administration

Most GLP-1 medications on the market today are injectables — meaning they are administered via a needle into your skin. This may be quite a new experience for you given that most medications are oral or topical. Luckily injecting GLP-1s isn’t incredibly complicated!

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That being said, it’s commonly reported that patients who are new to taking GLP-1s may experience some injection site discomfort. This side effect can be avoided by following a few best practices before, during, and after your injections. 

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Let’s explore how you can potentially minimize injection-site discomfort with GLP-1s. 

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Picking Your Most Optimal Injection Site

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GLP-1 medications are administered through subcutaneous injection. This means you will inject into areas of fat rather than muscle — and it also means that you have options! You can usually inject it into your upper thighs, stomach, or upper arms, but always be sure to check with your pharmacist or doctor. 

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There may be one area or areas you feel most comfortable injecting into and it’s completely fine to stick to those area(s), but keep in mind that you should be rotating the exact area where you inject to avoid reactions and discomfort — this is key to minimizing side effects!

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Properly Prep Your Skin for Injection 

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As your doctor or pharmacist mentioned, it’s crucial that you sanitize your skin with an alcohol wipe prior to administering your GLP-1. This step will protect you from infection. 

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As always, if your GLP-1 injection site discomfort is causing disruption to your life and comfort, be sure to reach out to your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

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The information on this site is for informational purposes only and should not replace direct medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment from your doctor or another qualified healthcare provider.

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Sources:

“How to inject semaglutide for weight loss.” The Mayo Clinic.