Quick answer
Before your first shot: bring the pen to room temperature, pick a weekly injection day, and stock simple foods and water for possible nausea. During: clean the site, rotate location, inject as instructed, and dispose of the needle safely. After: log Day 1, eat light and protein-forward, hydrate, and know the red flags. Tick each step below.
Before your first dose
Your checklist
0/8 doneYour ticks are saved on this device so you can come back to them.
Taking your injection
Your checklist
0/6 doneYour ticks are saved on this device so you can come back to them.
Right after
Your checklist
0/5 doneYour ticks are saved on this device so you can come back to them.
Safety first: follow the exact instructions that came with your specific pen and your clinician's guidance. Seek urgent care for swelling of the face or throat, trouble breathing, or severe abdominal pain.
After your shotLog Day 1 in the calculatorFrequently asked questions
Where should I inject?
The abdomen (avoiding a 2-inch area around the navel), the front of the thigh, or the back of the upper arm. Rotate sites each week to reduce soreness.
Does the injection hurt?
The needles are very short and fine; most people feel little. Letting the pen reach room temperature first can reduce stinging.
What time of day is best?
Any time that helps you stay consistent. Pick a day and time you'll remember each week; food timing doesn't matter for injectable semaglutide.
What if I feel nauseous after?
Common and usually mild. Small protein-forward meals, ginger, and fluids help. Severe or persistent vomiting warrants a call to your clinician.
When is my next dose?
One week later, on the same weekday. The Injection Day Calculator tracks the exact date and your dose-increase timing.
Related tools & guides
References
- U.S. Food & Drug Administration — Ozempic (semaglutide) instructions for use.
- American Diabetes Association — Standards of Care in Diabetes.
Medical disclaimer. This checklist is general education, not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions for your pen and your clinician's guidance, and seek care for severe or worrying symptoms.