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March 25, 2023 | Written by Greta Perry-Brooks

Tips for injecting your first dose of Saxenda

A Saxenda pen with the lid on.

Our partner doctors will always ensure to explain to you how to administer your prescription dose of Saxenda. Here is a step-by-step for reference, but always defer to your healthcare professional’s advice.

If you’re after a prescription for Saxenda, take our eligibility quiz now.

Where should I inject Saxenda?

Saxenda injections can be administered in the upper arm, abdomen, or front of the thigh. Most users find that injecting into the abdomen is more comfortable. The optimal spot on your stomach is below your belly button and above your hipline. Unlike other injectable medications, there is no need to rotate injection sites with Saxenda, although you may want to switch up locations for your own comfort. If you discover a site that is more suitable for you, feel free to continue using it.

How should I position myself?

Feelings of nervousness, particularly when it comes to injections, can often cause lightheadedness or nausea, as our bodies attempt to warn us of potential danger. Reclining and putting your body into a relaxed position during the administration process of Saxenda can help alleviate some of these nervous feelings and sensations.

Ensure that everything you need is within reach, and that you have a clear view of the injection site, typically the abdomen. After administering the dose, continue reclining for a short while to allow yourself time to calm down before congratulating yourself for successfully overcoming a daunting task.

How do I administer Saxenda?

Once you have selected your injection site and have reclined yourself into a relaxed position, you are ready to administer your dose of Saxenda. Always wash your hands before administering your dose.

Prepare Your Pen

1. Check the label to ensure that your pen contains Saxenda. Remove the pen cap.

An open Saxenda pen.

Attach a New Needle

2. Remove the paper tab from the needle. Push and turn the needle onto the pen until it is tight. Then remove both needle caps.

An open Saxenda pen showing needle with cover.

Check the medicine flow of each new pen

3. Turn the dose selector until the flow check symbol shows.

A close-up of the Saxenda pen showing how to adjust dose.

Administer your dose

Select your dose

4. Turn the dose selector until the dose counter displays your dose (shown here with a 0.6mg example dose). If you turn the dose selector past your dose, you can dial it back if needed.

A close-up of the Saxenda pen showing current dose.

Inject Your Dose

5. Insert the needle into your chosen injection site and press the button on the end of your pen. Hold the pen against your skin until it has ceased clicking and the dose counter has returned to 0.

Outline of a human body with lines pointing to arm, thigh and abdomen.

Remove the needle

6. Carefully twist to remove the needle from the pen. Immediately discard the needle into your provided sharps box. Return the cap to the pen.

A closed Saxenda pen.

How can a friend help me to administer Saxenda?

Incorporating friends and family into your weight loss journey has been shown to increase the likelihood of success, and if you’re feeling apprehensive about your first Saxenda injection, consider having a trusted loved one accompany you. Having a friendly and supportive presence nearby is a powerful way to alleviate nerves and worry. Additionally, you could print out the injection steps and have your friend prompt you as you become more accustomed to the process. However, it is essential to ensure that your Saxenda, needles, and sharps box are always kept out of sight and reach of children.

How should I store Saxenda?

Saxenda is best kept in the refrigerator until you are using a pen. Once a pen is in use, it may be stored at room temperature (below 30 degrees Celsius) until it is fully used. While it is safe to use Saxenda straight from the fridge, we recommend avoiding it, as doing so may result in a more uncomfortable stinging sensation due to the difference in temperature between the medication and your body. To avoid this discomfort, we recommend you wait for the medication to reach room temperature before administering it.

If you live in New Zealand and you’re interested in discovering how Reformr can assist you in your weight-loss journey, start by taking our free quiz.