How to Use Your GLP-1 Medication
Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) is a once-weekly injection designed to support weight management and improve blood sugar control.
On this page, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing your pen, injecting safely, managing side effects, and getting help when you need it.
Getting Started with Your Pen
What’s in the box?
Mounjaro pen, disposable needles, swabs and an information leaflet.
Storage
Keep your pen in the refrigerator (2°C–8°C). Do not freeze. Once opened, it can be kept at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 21 days.
Check your pen
Always confirm the right strength (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, etc.) and check the expiry date.
How To Use Your Mounjaro Pen
Step 1: Inspect Your Pen
- Confirm the correct dosage and medication name.
- Check the expiry date.
- Ensure the pen is intact and undamaged—do not use it if cracked or leaking.
Step 2: Prepare the Needle
- Wipe the pen tip with an alcohol wipe.
- Take a new, unused needle, and remove the cap.
- Press it firmly onto the pen and twist until secure.
Step 3: Remove Air Bubbles
- Turn the dial to the first line.
- Hold the pen upright and press the button firmly.
- Ensure a small drop appears—this means the pen is ready to use.
Step 4: Get Ready for Injection
- Turn the base of the pen to position 1.
- Clean the injection site (stomach or thigh) with an alcohol wipe.
- Rotate injection sites to avoid irritation.
Step 5: Administer the Injection
- Press the pen firmly against your skin.
- Push the button until it reaches position 0.
- Hold for 5 seconds before removing.
Step 6: Safely Dispose of the Needle
- Remove the needle carefully using the outer cap.
- Dispose of it in a sharps bin—do not throw it in normal waste.
Where and How to Inject
- Injection sites: Stomach (at least 5 cm away from your belly button), front of your thigh, or upper arm.
- Rotate sites: Don’t use the same spot each week.
Step-by-step:
Clean the area with an alcohol wipe.
Place the pen flat against your skin.
Press and hold the button until you hear a click.
Keep holding for 6 seconds to ensure the full dose is given.
Remove the pen and safely dispose of it.
Common Side Effects of Mounjaro
It’s normal to experience some side effects when starting a new treatment like Mounjaro. The good news is that most are mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts to the medication.
If you do feel any discomfort, we’re here to support you and our medical team is just a message away.
Some of the most frequently reported side effects include:
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
Constipation
Indigestion
Bloating or gas
Burping or heartburn
Mild stomach discomfort
These are usually short-term and manageable, especially in the first few weeks.
Though uncommon, please contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
Severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
Gallbladder issues (e.g., pain under the ribs, nausea, fever)
Symptoms of a thyroid tumour (lump or swelling in neck, trouble swallowing)
Changes in vision (especially with type 2 diabetes)
Persistent low blood sugar (if taking other diabetes medication)
Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
If you’re ever unsure, always check in — it’s better to be safe.
Here are a few tips that may help if you’re feeling nauseous or uncomfortable:
Eat smaller meals more frequently
Stop eating when you feel full
Avoid fatty or greasy foods
Choose gentle foods like toast, crackers, or rice
Stay well hydrated
If side effects persist or worsen, speak with our care team for personalised advice.
If any side effects are disrupting your day-to-day life, or if you’re unsure about how you’re feeling, reach out. Our medical team can help assess whether your dose needs adjusting or if there’s another solution that’s right for you.
Everyone responds differently to treatment. Remember, you’re not alone in this! We’ll support you through any side effects or concerns, and guide you every step of the way.
Wegovy® (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injection that helps with weight management by regulating appetite and supporting healthy lifestyle changes.
On this page, we’ll guide you through every step — from storing your pen to giving yourself an injection — so you feel confident and safe.
Getting Started with Your Pen
What’s in the box?
You’ll receive pre-filled pens (single-use, one per week), plus information leaflets.
Storage
Keep Wegovy® pens in the refrigerator (2°C–8°C). You may store a pen at room temperature (below 30°C) for up to 6 weeks if needed.
Check your pen
Always check the label for the correct dose (0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, etc.) and expiry date before use.
How to Prepare Your Pen
Wash your hands.
Remove the pen from the fridge about 30 minutes before use (optional — helps make injection more comfortable).
Take off the cap and check the pen visually. The solution should be clear and colourless.
You do not need to attach a needle — the Wegovy® pen comes with a hidden, built-in needle.
Where and How to Inject
- Injection sites: Stomach (at least 5 cm away from your belly button), front of your thigh, or upper arm.
- Rotate sites: Don’t use the same spot each week.
Step-by-step:
Clean the area with an alcohol wipe.
Place the pen flat against your skin.
Press and hold the button until you hear a click.
Keep holding for 6 seconds to ensure the full dose is given.
Remove the pen and safely dispose of it.
Wegovy Doses Explained
Your treatment follows a gentle, step-by-step dosing plan to help your body adjust comfortably.
0.25 mg
Starting dose (4 weeks)
0.5 mg
1 mg
1.7 mg
Continue (4 weeks each)
2.4 mg
Maintenance (4 weeks +)
Common Side Effects of Wegovy
It’s normal to experience some side effects when starting Wegovy. Most are mild and temporary, as your body adjusts to the treatment. You’re never alone. Our care team is here to help you manage anything that comes up.
These are typically short-term and often ease within the first few weeks:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain
- Headache
- Bloating or gas
- Indigestion or heartburn
- Burping
- Fatigue or dizziness
These are usually temporary as your body adjusts.
Although uncommon, contact your healthcare provider immediately if you notice:
- Severe stomach pain (may indicate pancreatitis)
- Symptoms of thyroid tumour (swelling in neck, difficulty swallowing)
- Gallbladder issues (e.g., sharp pain under ribs, nausea, fever)
- Vision changes (especially for people with type 2 diabetes)
- Persistent low blood sugar (if using other diabetes meds)
- Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, trouble breathing)
- Increased heart rate or feelings of depression
If you’re ever unsure, always check in — it’s better to be safe.
If you’re feeling unwell, these simple changes can help:
- Eat smaller and more frequent meals
- Choose bland, gentle foods like toast or rice
- Avoid fatty or greasy foods
- Drink water throughout the day and stay upright after meals
- Slow down your eating pace and stop when you’re full
If symptoms don’t improve, speak with our medical team. We can adjust your dose or recommend additional support.
If any side effects are disrupting your day-to-day life, or if you’re unsure about how you’re feeling, reach out. Our medical team can help assess whether your dose needs adjusting or if there’s another solution that’s right for you.
In case of a medical emergency, call 999 immediately.
Everyone responds differently to treatment. Remember, you’re not alone in this! We’ll support you through any side effects or concerns, and guide you every step of the way.
Recycle with PenCycle
Help give your used Wegovy® pens a new life.
Join PenCycle – a free, simple recycling service that turns empty pens into reusable materials instead of waste.
- Return your pens.
- Protect the environment.
- Support a sustainable future.
Extra Resources
Download the below Documents for more information
- Weight Management Brochure
- Cardiovascular risk reduction brochure
- How-to-use Wegovy® poster
- Wegovy® dosing calendar
Join Our Community
You’re not alone on this journey. Join our Envigore Facebook Forum to:
-
Share experiences with others on their journeys.
-
Ask questions and get support.
-
Stay motivated and celebrate progress.
Top Tips on GLP-1
Be Patient & Track Your Progress
Weight loss and other benefits take time. Keep track of how you feel, your energy levels, and any side effects. Regularly check in with your healthcare provider for support and guidance.
Stay Hydrated
GLP-1 medications can slow digestion, which may lead to dehydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid headaches, dizziness, and constipation.
Eat Smaller, Balanced Meals
Since these medications help you feel fuller for longer, large meals may cause discomfort. Stick to smaller portions with protein, healthy fats, and fibre to support digestion and energy levels.
Manage Potential Side Effects
Common side effects like nausea, bloating, and mild stomach discomfort can occur. Eating slowly, avoiding greasy foods, and staying upright after meals can help. If symptoms persist, consult your healthcare provider.
Rotate Injection Sites
To avoid skin irritation or lumps, change your injection site each time. Common areas include the stomach, thighs, or upper arms. Always clean the area before injecting.
Contact Us
Need Help?
If you have questions or concerns at any time:
Phone
Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:00 (Closed on Scottish Public Holidays)
Emergency: If you experience severe symptoms (like difficulty breathing, swelling of face/tongue, or intense stomach pain), call emergency services immediately.
FAQs
Still Wondering About Something?
Most patients can self-inject after watching our step-by-step guide or video. Our nurse team is also available to walk you through it.
Keep it in the fridge (2–8°C), never freeze, and protect from light. Once in use, Wegovy pens can stay at room temp for 28 days, Mounjaro for 21.
Any day/time works — just stick to the same day each week.
If it’s within 4 days, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 4 days pass, skip it and resume on your next scheduled day.
Common sites are stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate spots weekly to reduce irritation.
Yes, gently pinch a fold of skin to ensure the medicine goes into fatty tissue, not muscle.
Most patients report only a mild sting or pressure. The needle is very small and designed for comfort.
Always dispose of them in a sharps bin. Never place in household waste.
Some of the most frequently reported side effects include:
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Decreased appetite
Constipation
Indigestion
Bloating or gas
Burping or heartburn
Mild stomach discomfort
These are usually short-term and manageable, especially in the first few weeks.
Though uncommon, please contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience:
Severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis)
Gallbladder issues (e.g., pain under the ribs, nausea, fever)
Symptoms of a thyroid tumour (lump or swelling in neck, trouble swallowing)
Changes in vision (especially with type 2 diabetes)
Persistent low blood sugar (if taking other diabetes medication)
Allergic reactions (swelling, rash, difficulty breathing)
If you’re ever unsure, always check in — it’s better to be safe.
Here are a few tips that may help if you’re feeling nauseous or uncomfortable:
Eat smaller meals more frequently
Stop eating when you feel full
Avoid fatty or greasy foods
Choose gentle foods like toast, crackers, or rice
Stay well hydrated
If side effects persist or worsen, speak with our care team for personalised advice.
If any side effects are disrupting your day-to-day life, or if you’re unsure about how you’re feeling, reach out. Our medical team can help assess whether your dose needs adjusting or if there’s another solution that’s right for you.
Some medications, like diabetes tablets, may need review. Always share your full medication list in your consultation.
In the UK, treatment is generally recommended to last 2 years before a review. A short break may be required based on medical history and discussions with prescriber.
Yes, maintenance dosing may help prevent regain. Your prescriber will adjust treatment to suit your needs.
Yes. GLP-1 medications work best when combined with healthy eating and regular activity.
A short washout period of 7-14 days is required, and you’ll restart on the lowest dose. Your prescriber will guide this process.