Semaglutide Injection: What to Expect

What Is a Semaglutide Injection?

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, a medication that mimics a natural hormone involved in appetite, digestion, and insulin response. It’s available in several FDA-approved products, including:

• Ozempic® – Approved for managing type 2 diabetes
  
• Wegovy® – Approved for chronic weight management in adults with qualifying medical criteria
  
  

Semaglutide is typically delivered via a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, which means it's administered just under the skin. It's not given intravenously or taken as a daily pill (except in the case of Rybelsus®, a separate oral version of semaglutide).

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Where and How Is the Injection Given?

Semaglutide injections are given once a week, on the same day each week, unless your provider instructs otherwise.

Common injection sites include:

• The front of the thigh
  
• The abdomen (at least two inches away from the belly button)
  
• The upper arm (if administered by someone else)
  
  

Most individuals are taught how to self-administer the injection at home. The process is designed to be quick and straightforward, using a pen-style injector with a very fine needle.

If you're using a prefilled pen, your licensed healthcare provider or pharmacist will provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare and administer the medication safely.

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What Does It Feel Like?

Many people report that the semaglutide injection feels similar to other routine subcutaneous injections, typically a brief pinch or slight pressure. The needle is small and thin, and the injection usually takes less than 10 seconds.

You may feel a small amount of soreness or redness at the injection site afterward. If that occurs, rotating the injection site each week (thigh one week, abdomen the next) may help minimize irritation.

If you experience persistent discomfort, consult your licensed healthcare provider for guidance.

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What to Expect in the First Few Weeks

Week 1–4:

Your provider may start you on a low dose (such as 0.25 mg), which may allow your body to adjust to the medication. This period may help minimize side effects, like nausea or bloating.

Week 5 and beyond:

If tolerated, your provider may gradually increase your dose every 4 weeks until reaching a maintenance dose (which varies by medication and individual need).

Some people may begin to notice:

• Reduced appetite
  
• Feeling full sooner when eating
  
• Digestive changes (such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea)
  
• Mild fatigue
  
  

These effects are common early in treatment and may improve with time.

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How Long Before You Notice Results?

Semaglutide is designed to work gradually. While some individuals notice changes in appetite or food preferences within the first few weeks, visible weight-related results may take 8 to 12 weeks or more, especially when paired with lifestyle changes.

In the STEP 1 clinical trial, participants taking semaglutide 2.4 mg experienced an average weight reduction of 14.9% over 68 weeks. The GLP-1 formulation used in this trial is the same as the one that was later approved and marketed under the brand name Wegovy®, specifically for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight individuals with at least one weight-related condition.

Each person’s experience is different, and your provider can help set realistic expectations based on your health profile.

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When to Contact Your Provider

You should speak with your licensed provider if you experience:

• Persistent nausea or vomiting
  
• Severe abdominal pain
  
• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing)
  
• Any concerns about injection technique or missed doses
  
  

Having regular check-ins can help ensure your treatment is progressing safely and effectively.

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Eden’s Role in the Process

Eden is neither a pharmacy nor a healthcare provider. Instead, Eden is a digital health platform that connects individuals with independent, licensed healthcare providers who evaluate whether medications like semaglutide are appropriate based on your medical history and goals.

If a provider prescribes treatment, medications are filled by state-licensed pharmacies and shipped directly to your door for convenience and privacy.

Eden does not produce or compound any medications. Our role is to help simplify access to trusted care.

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Conclusion

Starting semaglutide injections may feel like a big step, but understanding how they work can help make the experience more comfortable and empowering.

From how the injection feels to what to expect in the first few weeks, the key is staying informed and connected with a licensed healthcare provider. Eden is here to help you start that journey, on your terms.

Curious if semaglutide is right for you? Begin your consultation with a licensed provider and receive personalized answers tailored to your health goals.