Subcutaneous injection
Also called: subQ injection
Clinical reviewer: Jacob Moore, MD · Last checked September 24, 2026
What is a subcutaneous injection?
Subcutaneous injection is an injection given into the fatty tissue just under the skin. GLP-1 medications such as Wegovy are injected this way, in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, with the injection site rotated with each dose. Other subcutaneous drugs include insulin and some blood-thinners.
Where are GLP-1 injections given?
Wegovy's label says to inject it subcutaneously in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm, and to rotate injection sites with each dose [1]. It is supplied as a single-dose pen or syringe, or as a FlexTouch pen injector [1]. The time of day and the injection site can be changed without needing a dose change [1]. MedlinePlus lists the upper arms, outer thighs, and belly area as the best areas for a subcutaneous injection, alongside insulin, blood-thinners, and fertility drugs as other medications given this way [2].
Why does the injection site matter?
Changing the injection site helps keep skin healthy and helps the body absorb medicine well, according to MedlinePlus guidance on subcutaneous injections [2]. In Zepbound's trials, injection site reactions were reported in 2% of patients on placebo compared with 6% to 8% of patients on Zepbound [3]. MedlinePlus also states that injection sites should have "no redness, swelling, scarring, bruising, or other damage" [2].
Frequently asked questions
Can the injection site be changed without adjusting the dose?+−
Yes. Wegovy's label states the time of day and the injection site can be changed without a dosage modification. The same label says to rotate injection sites with each dose.
What other medications are given by subcutaneous injection?+−
MedlinePlus lists insulin, blood-thinners, and fertility drugs as examples of medications given by subcutaneous injection, the same route used for GLP-1 drugs.
Related terms
Sources
This entry is for education and is not medical advice. Talk with a licensed clinician about your own situation before starting, stopping, or changing any treatment.
