Where to inject Wegovy?

Recommended sites are the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites each week to reduce local irritation, and avoid areas that are tender, bruised, scarred, or inflamed. If a spot stings or looks red after, switch to a different area next time and mention it at your review. NHS training stresses that choosing the right location improves comfort and consistency over the long term.

Why injection site matters

Wegovy is given subcutaneously, meaning the medicine needs to sit in the fatty layer just under the skin. Placing the pen in a reliable area helps ensure consistent absorption across the week and reduces avoidable soreness. Using muscle or very thin tissue accidentally can cause discomfort and compromise delivery. Site choice may also affect confidence: people who learn a comfortable routine tend to stick with treatment, which is crucial for long-term results. People with lower body fat often find the abdomen most comfortable, while those who sit for long periods may prefer thighs to avoid pressing on a recent site.

Recommended injection areas

There are three main sites: 

• Abdomen: Usually the easiest. Choose an area at least two inches away from the belly button, spreading doses around the lower abdomen. The skin is typically soft here, and access is simple when injecting yourself. 

• Thighs: The front or outer thigh is a good alternative. Many people like the outer thigh because it is easy to see and hold the pen steady, especially if hand strength is limited. 

• Upper arm: The back of the upper arm is suitable but often needs another person to help, because reaching the correct spot while holding the pen flat can be awkward. Absorption is broadly similar across these sites, so comfort, ease, and good technique matter more than the exact location.

The importance of rotation

Rotating sites each week limits skin irritation and helps prevent lipohypertrophy, the small, rubbery lumps that can form with repeated injections into the same place. A simple rotation plan works well: for example, left abdomen, right abdomen, left thigh, right thigh, then repeat. Some people use a phone note or printed chart to track where they last injected, particularly during dose escalation when other changes are happening at the same time. Rotation also spreads any minor bruising so one area does not become sore.

What to avoid

Avoid injecting into skin that is tender, bruised, scarred, hard, or inflamed. Do not use moles, stretch-marked patches that are very thin, or areas with active rashes. Keep at least two inches away from the navel and avoid obvious veins. If a previous injection site is still red or itchy, choose a different area and allow it to settle before returning. Checking the skin briefly before each dose only takes seconds and prevents most problems.

Managing mild reactions

Mild stinging, redness, or small bruises can happen and usually settle within a day or two. A cool pack for a few minutes after the injection can soothe the area. Let the pen warm to room temperature before use, and always attach a fresh needle; both steps improve comfort. If you notice a droplet at the site, it is usually medicine from the needle track rather than a lost dose; hold the pen in place for a few seconds next time. Persistent soreness should be mentioned at review so your technique can be checked. Avoid rubbing the area after injecting, as this can worsen irritation. Use gentle pressure instead.

Wegovy compared to other injections

The recommended sites mirror other GLP-1 injections such as Saxenda and Mounjaro, and the same principles apply: subcutaneous tissue, steady hand position, and rotation. If you have previously used a different device, ask your nurse to point out any pen-specific differences — for example, whether a flow-check is needed the first time, or how the indicator window displays a completed dose. Consistency in technique matters more than the brand name on the pen.

NHS support and training

NHS weight-management services usually teach injection technique at the first appointment and provide written guides. Practising once under supervision helps most people find the most comfortable site and angle. Clinicians can also advise on practicalities, such as using a mirror for the upper arm, or selecting thigh areas if abdominal surgery has left scar tissue. If anxiety persists, a further in-clinic practice session can be arranged.

Key takeaways

The abdomen, thigh, and upper arm are all suitable sites for Wegovy. Rotate weekly, avoid irritated or damaged skin, and let the pen reach room temperature to improve comfort. Small reactions are common and short-lived; good technique and rotation prevent most of them. With NHS teaching and a little practice, choosing where to inject becomes a quick, confident step in your weekly routine.