Wegovy thigh injection is a convenient method for administering semaglutide 2.4 mg, a once-weekly GLP-1 receptor agonist licensed by the MHRA for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with comorbidities. The thigh offers excellent visibility and accessibility for self-administration, making it a popular choice amongst the three approved injection sites. Proper technique, including site rotation and correct subcutaneous placement, ensures optimal drug absorption and minimises local reactions. This guide provides comprehensive, evidence-based instructions for safe and effective Wegovy thigh injections, aligned with UK clinical guidance and NICE recommendations for specialist weight management services.

Understanding Wegovy Thigh Injections

Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is a once-weekly subcutaneous injection licensed by the MHRA for weight management in adults with obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m²) or overweight (BMI ≥27 kg/m²) with at least one weight-related comorbidity. As a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist, semaglutide works by mimicking the action of the naturally occurring GLP-1 hormone, which regulates appetite and food intake through effects on the brain's satiety centres.

In the UK, NICE recommends Wegovy as part of a specialist weight management service for adults with a BMI of at least 35 kg/m² (or 30 kg/m² with weight-related comorbidities), with appropriate adjustments for people from Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups. Treatment is typically limited to a maximum of 2 years.

The medication is administered via a pre-filled, single-dose pen injector that delivers the drug into the subcutaneous tissue—the layer of fat beneath the skin. The thigh is one of three recommended injection sites, alongside the abdomen and upper arm. Many patients find the thigh particularly convenient for self-administration, as it offers good visibility and accessibility. Upper arm injections may require assistance from a caregiver.

Subcutaneous injection allows for gradual absorption of semaglutide into the bloodstream, maintaining therapeutic levels throughout the week. The anterior (front) and lateral (outer) aspects of the thigh contain adequate subcutaneous tissue for proper drug delivery whilst avoiding muscle tissue and major blood vessels. Rotating injection sites within and between the approved areas is essential to prevent lipodystrophy (changes in fat tissue) and maintain consistent drug absorption.

Importantly, Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception and stop Wegovy at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy.

Preparing for Your Wegovy Thigh Injection

Proper preparation is essential for safe and effective Wegovy administration. If preferred for comfort, you may remove your Wegovy pen from the refrigerator to allow it to reach room temperature before injection. Do not use external heat sources to warm the pen.

Check the medication carefully before each injection. Examine the solution through the pen window—it should be clear and colourless or slightly yellow. Do not use the pen if the liquid appears cloudy, discoloured, or contains particles. Verify the expiration date on the pen label and ensure you have the correct dose strength as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Gather your supplies in a clean, well-lit area:

• Your Wegovy pen

• Alcohol wipes (70% isopropyl alcohol)

• A sharps disposal container approved for home use

• Clean, dry hands

Hand hygiene is paramount. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, ensuring you clean between fingers and under nails. Dry hands completely with a clean towel.

Select and prepare your injection site on the front or outer thigh, at least 5 cm (2 inches) away from your previous injection site. The area should be free from bruises, scars, moles, or areas of broken or irritated skin. Avoid injecting into areas with lumps, swelling, or tenderness. Clean the chosen site with an alcohol wipe using a circular motion from the centre outward, then allow the skin to air dry completely—this typically takes 10–15 seconds. Never fan or blow on the area, as this may reintroduce bacteria.

Wegovy pens should be stored in a refrigerator (2–8°C), kept in the original carton to protect from light, and must not be frozen. Refer to the Patient Information Leaflet for details on permitted storage at room temperature if needed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Injecting Wegovy in the Thigh

Wegovy comes as a pre-filled, single-use pen with an integrated needle. Follow these steps for proper administration:

1. Check the pen to ensure the medication appears clear and colourless or slightly yellow. Verify the expiration date and dose strength.

2. Position yourself comfortably, either sitting or standing, ensuring you have clear access to your thigh.

3. Choose your injection technique based on the amount of subcutaneous tissue present:

4. If you can pinch at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) of skin and fat, gently pinch the thigh between your thumb and fingers to create a raised area

5. If you have adequate subcutaneous tissue, you may inject without pinching

6. Remove the pen cap by pulling it straight off. You may see a drop of liquid at the needle tip—this is normal.

7. Place the pen flat against your skin at a 90-degree angle, with the clear window visible. The pen must be placed flat on the skin for the button to unlock.

8. Press and hold the pen firmly against your skin. You will hear a click when the injection starts. Continue holding the pen against your skin until the yellow indicator has stopped moving and you hear or feel a second click.

9. Keep holding the pen against your skin for approximately 10 seconds after the second click to ensure the full dose is delivered.

10. Remove the pen by lifting it straight away from your skin. A small amount of bleeding or a drop of fluid at the injection site is normal—simply apply gentle pressure with a clean tissue if needed.

11. Dispose of the used pen immediately in your sharps container. Each Wegovy pen is for single use only and cannot be reused.

Do not rub the injection site after administration, as this may affect drug absorption. Follow local guidelines for disposing of your sharps container when full.

Managing Side Effects and Injection Site Reactions

Local injection site reactions are generally mild and transient with Wegovy thigh injections. Common reactions include redness, itching, bruising, or mild swelling at the injection site, typically resolving within a few days without intervention. Applying a cool compress (not ice directly on skin) for 10–15 minutes after injection may help reduce discomfort and swelling.

To minimise injection site reactions:

• Rotate injection sites consistently, never injecting in the same spot twice in succession

• Allow alcohol to dry completely before inserting the needle

• Use a smooth, confident technique rather than hesitant, slow penetration

• Avoid injecting into areas with existing bruises or irritation

Systemic gastrointestinal side effects are more common than injection site reactions with Wegovy. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, and abdominal pain affect a significant proportion of patients, particularly during dose escalation. These effects typically diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. To manage gastrointestinal symptoms:

• Eat smaller, more frequent meals rather than large portions

• Avoid high-fat, fried, or heavily spiced foods

• Stay well hydrated, sipping water throughout the day

• Eat slowly and stop when comfortably satisfied

Seek medical advice if you're unable to keep fluids down, as dehydration can lead to kidney problems.

Hypoglycaemia risk is generally low with Wegovy monotherapy but increases if you take other diabetes medications. Be aware of symptoms including trembling, sweating, confusion, rapid heartbeat, or feeling faint. If you experience recurrent hypoglycaemia, contact your GP or diabetes specialist for medication review.

Document your injection sites using a body map or diary to ensure proper rotation and identify any patterns of reaction.

If you experience any suspected side effects, report them to the MHRA Yellow Card Scheme, which helps monitor the safety of medicines.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Seek immediate medical attention (call 999 or attend A&E) if you experience:

• Signs of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis): difficulty breathing, swelling of face/lips/tongue/throat, severe rash or hives, rapid pulse, dizziness or fainting

Contact NHS 111 or seek urgent GP advice if you develop:

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain (possibly radiating to the back), with or without vomiting, which may indicate pancreatitis

• Severe upper right abdominal pain, fever, or yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), which may suggest gallbladder problems

• Severe or persistent gastrointestinal symptoms preventing adequate fluid or food intake

• Signs of dehydration (dark urine, dizziness, reduced urination, extreme thirst)

Contact your GP if you notice:

• Persistent injection site reactions lasting more than one week

• Signs of infection at injection sites (increasing warmth, spreading redness, pus, fever)

• Recurrent hypoglycaemia if taking diabetes medications

• Unexplained visual changes or severe headaches

• A lump or swelling in the neck, persistent hoarseness, difficulty swallowing, or shortness of breath

• Symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts (rare but reported)

Routine follow-up with your prescribing clinician is essential for monitoring treatment response, managing side effects, and adjusting doses appropriately. NICE recommends regular review of weight loss progress, with consideration of treatment discontinuation if less than 5% body weight loss is achieved after 6 months at maintenance dose. Treatment is typically limited to a maximum of 2 years.

If you miss a dose and it's 5 days or less since the scheduled injection, take the missed dose as soon as possible. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next injection on the regular scheduled day.

Never share your Wegovy pen with others, as this poses serious infection risks. Store unused pens in the refrigerator (2–8°C), do not freeze, and keep in the original carton to protect from light. Refer to the Patient Information Leaflet for details on permitted storage at room temperature if needed.

Women of childbearing potential should use effective contraception while taking Wegovy and stop treatment at least 2 months before a planned pregnancy. Wegovy should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Frequently Asked Questions