In the concluding part of our Ozempic review we offer a definitive step by step guide on how to use the pen correctly
Posted by Eamonn Brady on
Ozempic®: Part 6
How to use?
This is my final of 6 articles on Ozempic. If you missed any, you can find them on www.whelehans.ie. Ozempic pen is used for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. It is given by subcutaneous injections once a week starting with a lower dose and eventually increasing to the maintenance dose of 1mg weekly. It is easy to use and once shown, the patient can inject themselves weekly.
Step 1: What you need?
The Ozempic pen, a new disposable needle (included in pack), an alcohol swab, and a sharps disposal container.
Step 2: Check the Medication
Inspect the Ozempic pen visually. Ensure that the medication inside is clear and free of particles. Do not use it if it appears discoloured or contains any visible impurities.
Step 3: Prepare the Pen
Remove the cap from the Ozempic pen and check that it contains the correct dose as prescribed. The pen typically comes pre-filled with a certain amount of Ozempic.
Step 4: Attach a New Needle
Take a new disposable needle and remove the protective cap. Screw the needle onto the pen tightly but do not overtighten. Ensure that you use a fresh needle for each injection.
Step 5: Remove Air Bubbles
Hold the pen with the needle pointing up and tap it gently to make any air bubbles rise to the top. Press the plunger on the pen until a drop of medication appears at the tip of the needle, indicating that there are no air bubbles.
Step 6: Select the Injection Site
Common injection sites for Ozempic include the stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Clean the chosen area with an alcohol swab and allow to dry.
Step 7: Administer the Injection
Hold the Ozempic pen like a pencil and insert the needle into the cleaned injection site at a 90-degree angle. Slowly press the plunger to inject the medication. Make sure you inject all the medication and count to 5 before withdrawing the needle.
Step 8: Remove the Needle
After the injection, remove the needle from your skin. Dispose of it properly in a sharp’s container. Do not recap the needle.
Step 9: Recap the Pen
Replace the outer cap on the Ozempic pen. Store it at the recommended temperature until your next injection.
Covid-19 booster and flu vaccines at Whelehans
If living with diabetes or obesity, you are more at risk of serious illness from influenza or Covid-19 and the best way to stay safe is to get vaccinated. Whelehans Pearse St offer a weekly walk in Covid-19 booster clinic. You can get your Flu vaccine and Covid Booster on the same day at Whelehans Pharmacy. Whelehans Pharmacy Clonmore offer the Flu vaccine too. You can book conveniently on the Whelehans website (€5 off flu if booked online but many groups are free of charge including diabetics).
Disclaimer: Ozempic® is only available on prescription; this article only gives general information so speak to your health provider whether it is suitable for you as it does not suit all patients
For comprehensive and free health advice and information call in to Whelehans, log on to www.whelehans.ie or dial 04493 34591 (Pearse St) or 04493 10266 (Clonmore). Email queries to info@whelehans.ie. Find us on Facebook