Updated on March 8, 2026 by Lori Mulligan, MPH. To give you technically accurate, evidence-based information, content published on the Everlywell blog is reviewed by credentialed professionals with expertise in medical and bioscience fields.
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If you are taking Ozempic®, you may be wondering where the best place to inject it is. Choosing the right injection site can help ensure the medication is delivered properly and may reduce skin irritation.
Ozempic® (semaglutide) is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection, meaning it is injected into the fatty tissue just beneath the skin. Several areas of the body can be used for injections, but some locations tend to work better than others.
It’s important to avoid injecting into muscle or veins and to rotate injection sites each week to help prevent redness, irritation, or tenderness at the injection site.
Where To Inject Ozempic®
The following areas are commonly recommended injection sites for Ozempic®.
Stomach/Abdomen Area
The abdomen around the belly button provides a padded area with sufficient subcutaneous fat for injections. Inject at least two inches away from the belly button. Rotating between the upper left, upper right, lower right, and lower left sections of the abdomen can help reduce skin irritation.
Thighs
The front and outer areas of the thighs are also suitable injection sites. These locations typically contain enough fatty tissue to avoid injecting into muscle. Alternate thighs each week or rotate to a different injection site.
Upper Arm
The back of the upper arm—between the elbow and shoulder—can also be used. This area contains sufficient fatty tissue, but injections here may be easier with assistance from another person.
Buttocks
The upper outer region of the buttocks is another suitable site. This area typically contains enough padding to support subcutaneous injections while minimizing the risk of injecting into muscle.
Injection Techniques
Following proper injection techniques may help ensure the medication is delivered effectively.
- Inject into fatty tissue: Common injection sites include the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, and the back of the upper arms.
- Avoid irritated skin: Do not inject into areas that are swollen, red, burned, or tender.
- Rotate injection sites: Changing locations each week allows previous injection sites to recover and may help prevent skin reactions.
- Use the appropriate needle: Always use the needle provided with the medication or recommended by your healthcare provider.
- Press and hold the pen: Follow the instructions provided with your medication pen and hold the pen against the skin long enough to deliver the full dose.
- Insert the needle fully: A quick, controlled motion may help reduce discomfort.
- Clean the skin: Use an alcohol swab and allow it to dry before injecting.
- Dispose of needles safely: Place used needles in an approved sharps container.
- Do not share medication pens: Sharing injection pens or needles may transmit infections.
What If I Miss An Injection Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible within five days of the missed injection. After that, resume your regular weekly schedule. If more than five days have passed, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at your usual time. Do not take double doses. Contact your healthcare provider if you have questions about missed doses.[3]
Explore Treatment Options
If you are considering GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide, speaking with a healthcare provider can help you determine whether this type of treatment is appropriate for your health needs.
Many telehealth platforms now offer online consultations where licensed providers review medical history, discuss treatment options, and determine eligibility for prescription medications.
Related Content
Ozempic® Nausea Relief: What to Know
Can You Take Ozempic® While Pregnant?
Jardiance® vs. Ozempic®: Similarities and Differences
References
- Stomach, Arm, or Thigh: Does Where You Inject Ozempic® Make a Difference? GoodRx Health. https://www.goodrx.com/ozempic/where-to-inject-ozempic. Accessed on 10/10/2023.
- Semaglutide (subcutaneous route). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/semaglutide-subcutaneous-route/side-effects/drg-20406730?p=1. Accessed on 10/10/2023.
- Semaglutide injection. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/drugs/19011-semaglutide-injection. Accessed on 10/10/2023.
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