How to use an Ozempic pen

Ozempic (brand name), or semaglutide (generic name), is an injectable medication used to treat type 2 diabetes. It comes in a prefilled pen that you use to inject the medicine under your skin. Here’s how to use the Ozempic pen:

Preparation:

Check the pen: Make sure the label on the pen matches the medicine you were prescribed, and ensure the liquid inside is clear.

Attach a new needle: Pull off the paper tab, push and turn the needle until it’s tight, and remove the outer and inner caps.

Remember to always use a new needle for each injection to reduce the risk of contamination or infection.

Check the flow:

Before the first use of a new Ozempic pen, check the flow of medicine. If no drop appears, repeat the flow check up to six times. If there’s still no drop, change the needle and repeat once more. Do not use the pen if Ozempic doesn’t appear after these steps.

Select your dose:

Dial the pen to the prescribed dosage (eg, 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg). Your healthcare provider may prescribe a pen that delivers a specific dose based on your needs.

Inject your dose:

Choose an injection site (abdomen, thigh, or back of the upper arm).

Hold the pen at a 90-degree angle to the skin and inject.

Count to six before removing the needle.

After the injection:

Dispose of the used pen needle in a Sharps container. Replace the pen cap. How do I know when my Ozempic pen is empty?

It is helpful to know the number of doses of Ozempic in your pen.

The 0.25/0.5 mg pen, 3 mL size, contains four doses of 0.25 mg and two doses of 0.5 mg, or four doses of 0.5 mg

The 0.25/0.5 mg pen, 1.5 mL size, contains four doses of 0.25 mg and two doses of 0.5 mg, or four doses of 0.5 mg

The 1 mg pen contains four doses of 1 mg

The 2 mg pen contains four doses of 2 mg

To see how much Ozempic is left in the pen, use the dose counter. Turn the dose counter to the desired dose. If there is not enough medicine left in the pen, you will not be able to dial up the appropriate dose. Use a new pen if there is insufficient medicine for a full dose.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions for safe and effective use.

References How to use and inject an Ozempic pen - YouTube. How to use an Ozempic pen: Administration and dose | SingleCare. Where and how should Ozempic be injected? (drugs.com).