How to Reconstitute and Inject Semaglutide for Weight Loss

Introduction to Semaglutide and Bacteriostatic Water

Semaglutide is an injectable medication used for weight loss and blood sugar control in people with type 2 diabetes. The brand names for semaglutide are Ozempic and Wegovy. It belongs to a class of medications called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

Semaglutide comes as a powder that needs to be reconstituted (mixed) with a liquid called bacteriostatic water before injection. Bacteriostatic water contains a preservative to prevent bacteria growth when mixed with medications. It allows the mixed medication to be stored for later use.

How Semaglutide Works

Semaglutide helps lower blood sugar levels and reduce appetite by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1. This hormone is released naturally by the body after eating a meal. It signals the pancreas to release insulin to control blood sugar. It also tells the brain the stomach is full and suppresses appetite.

As a GLP-1 receptor agonist, semaglutide activates receptors in the body to replicate these effects of the natural GLP-1 hormone. This leads to improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and reduced hunger.

Semaglutide Dosage Forms

Semaglutide comes in two doses for weight loss:

• 2.4 mg per week
• 5 mg per week

The 2.4 mg dose is available under the brand name Wegovy. The 5 mg dose may be prescribed off-label by some doctors. Both are injected subcutaneously (under the skin) once per week.

How to Mix Semaglutide Powder with Bacteriostatic Water

Mixing semaglutide with bacteriostatic water is a simple process but it's important to follow instructions carefully.

Supplies Needed

You will need the following supplies:

• Semaglutide powder vial
• Bacteriostatic water vial
• Alcohol swabs
• Syringes with needle tips
• Sharps container for safe disposal

Step-by-Step Mixing Instructions

Follow these steps for proper reconstitution technique:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
2. Take the semaglutide and bacteriostatic water vials out of the refrigerator and allow to reach room temperature.
3. Remove the plastic caps from the vials.
4. Wipe the rubber stopper on each vial with an alcohol swab and allow to dry.
5. Open the syringe packet and attach a needle tip.
6. Pull back the plunger and draw air into the syringe equal to the amount of bacteriostatic water needed.
7. Insert the needle into the bacteriostatic water vial.
8. Inject the air from the syringe into the vial.
9. Turn the vial upside down and slowly withdraw the correct amount of bacteriostatic water needed.
10. Pull the needle out and check for air bubbles in the syringe. Flick gently to move bubbles to the top and push them out.
11. Insert the needle into the semaglutide powder vial.
12. Slowly inject the bacteriostatic water into powder vial.
13. Gently swirl the vial for 10 seconds until powder dissolves. Do not shake vigorously.
14. Turn the vial upside down and slowly withdraw the entire mixed solution back into the syringe.
15. Double check for air bubbles and push them out if needed.
16. Store reconstituted semaglutide vial in refrigerator until next use. It must be used within 4 weeks.
17. Discard used needles in sharps container.

How Much Bacteriostatic Water to Use

The amount of bacteriostatic water needed depends on the semaglutide dose:

• 2.4 mg dose: Add 0.6 mL bacteriostatic water to powder vial
• 5 mg dose: Add 1 mL bacteriostatic water to powder vial

This dissolves the powder and provides the concentrations needed for injecting your weekly dose. Always double check the prescribing information for the exact reconstitution instructions.

How to Inject Reconstituted Semaglutide

Once semaglutide powder is properly mixed with bacteriostatic water, follow these steps for injecting your weekly dose:

1. Select your injection site and wipe with alcohol. Common sites are stomach, thighs, or upper arms.
2. Pinch skin to make a fold.
3. Insert needle fully into skin at 90 degree angle.
4. Push plunger slowly to inject solution. Inject entire contents of syringe.
5. Hold for 5-10 seconds then withdraw needle.
6. Discard syringe in sharps container.

Be sure to rotate your injection site each week. Do not inject into moles, scars, bruises, or areas where the skin is tender, red, hard, or not intact.

Recommended Semaglutide Doses

Inject the following semaglutide doses under your skin once weekly:

• 2.4 mg dose: Inject 0.6 mL
• 5 mg dose: Inject 1 mL

Start with the lower 2.4 mg dose then increase to 5 mg if additional weight loss is desired. Doctors may customize dosage and frequency based on your individual needs.

Precautions When Mixing and Injecting Semaglutide

To safely mix and inject semaglutide, be mindful of the following precautions:

• Use proper aseptic technique when reconstituting powder.
• Never reuse needles or syringes.
• Discard any unused solution after 4 weeks of storage.
• Report signs of infection at injection site to your doctor.
• Tell your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking.
• Semaglutide can affect absorption of oral medications. Separate dosing times.
• Seek emergency care for severe side effects like pancreatitis.
• Semaglutide is not recommended in patients under 18 years old.
• Use effective birth control as semaglutide may harm a developing fetus.

Always follow the specific instructions provided by your pharmacy and prescribing doctor. Proper mixing, dosing, injection technique, and disposal of sharps is important for safety and effectiveness.

Storing Reconstituted Semaglutide

After mixing semaglutide powder with bacteriostatic water, store the vial properly to maintain drug stability:

• Keep vial in refrigerator between 36°F to 46°F (2°C to 8°C).
• Do not freeze or expose to heat above 77°F (25°C).
• Write the date of reconstitution on the vial label.
• Discard if not used within 4 weeks after mixing.
• Keep vials in original carton until ready for use.
• Protect from light by storing in refrigerator.

Adhering to proper storage conditions prevents semaglutide from degrading and losing effectiveness. Always check the vial for any change in color or cloudiness before injecting.

Traveling with Reconstituted Semaglutide

When traveling, take these steps to properly store your mixed semaglutide:

• Use a insulated bag or cooler with ice/cold packs.
• Make sure vial doesn't freeze.
• Keep vial upright to prevent leakage.
• Travel with your doctor's prescription and letter of medical necessity.
• Bring enough syringes/needles for your dosing schedule.
• Pack alcohol wipes, sharps container, and other supplies.
• Check temperature periodically to ensure vial stays cold.

Planning ahead helps keep reconstituted semaglutide at the right temperature when bringing it along for trips. If unsure, bring an unmixed vial as backup.

Side Effects and Safety Considerations

Semaglutide may cause certain side effects, especially when first starting treatment. Common side effects include:

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Indigestion, abdominal pain
• Decreased appetite
• Constipation
• Fatigue
• Headache

Nausea and digestive issues usually improve over a few weeks. Drink fluids, eat smaller meals, and take anti-nausea medication as needed.

Rare but serious risks include:

• Pancreatitis
• Severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• Kidney problems
• Vision changes
• Allergic reactions
• Gallbladder problems

Seek medical care right away if you experience severe side effects. Do not take semaglutide if you or a family member have Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 or have had pancreatitis.

Semaglutide may also interact with certain medications like insulin, blood thinners, antibiotics, over-the-counter drugs, herbs, and supplements. Tell your doctor about everything you are taking before starting semaglutide.

Benefits vs Risks

For most people seeking sustainable weight loss, the benefits of semaglutide outweigh potential risks when used under medical supervision. Benefits include:

• Average weight loss of 15-20% in 1 year
• Reduced food cravings
• Better control of blood sugar
• Improved cholesterol levels
• Lower risk for weight-related diseases
• Increased energy

Your doctor will monitor you closely for any side effects and adjust dosage as needed. Report any concerning symptoms promptly for evaluation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does reconstituted semaglutide last at room temperature?

Reconstituted semaglutide should not be kept at room temperature. It must be refrigerated at all times and discarded if left unrefrigerated for more than a total of 4 weeks.

Can semaglutide be injected in the thigh?

Yes, the thigh is an approved injection site for semaglutide along with the abdomen and upper arm. Rotate sites weekly.

What is the most common side effect of semaglutide?

Nausea is the most common side effect, reported in up to 20% of people starting semaglutide. It usually resolves within 4-8 weeks with continued use.

Does semaglutide raise blood pressure?

Semaglutide may cause a slight increase in blood pressure. This typically resolves on its own but your doctor will monitor your blood pressure routinely.

Can semaglutide be taken with other diabetes medications?

Yes, semaglutide can be used safely with other diabetes drugs like metformin. Dosage of insulin or sulfonylureas may need adjustment. Tell your doctor about all medications.

The Bottom Line

When reconstituting and injecting semaglutide for weight management, be sure to follow instructions carefully. Use proper aseptic technique, inject the full dose weekly, and store vials correctly. Monitor for side effects and work closely with your healthcare provider for optimal results and safety.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.