First Steps: What to Do Immediately If Wegovy Leaks
Seeing medication leak after an injection can be alarming, but the most important first step is not to panic. The consensus from medical experts and the manufacturer is clear: do not administer a second dose [1.2.1]. Attempting to re-inject could lead to taking too much medication [1.2.2].
Here’s what you should do:
- Gently Clean the Area: If you notice liquid on your skin, simply clean the area. If there's a small drop of blood, which is also normal, apply light pressure with a cotton ball or gauze [1.2.1, 1.5.5]. Do not rub the site [1.5.6].
- Assess the Situation: A single drop of liquid at the needle tip or on the skin after injection is often normal and doesn't mean you've lost the dose [1.5.3, 1.5.6]. A more significant leak or squirt might indicate an issue with the injection process [1.2.4].
- Document the Event: If you are concerned, note the date and time. It can also be helpful to have the pen's lot number and expiration date available if you need to contact support [1.2.1].
- Wait for Your Next Scheduled Dose: Continue with your regular weekly dosing schedule. If you missed a dose and your next scheduled dose is more than two days away, take the dose as soon as possible. If it's less than two days away, skip the missed dose and wait for your next one [1.2.7, 1.4.2].
Understanding Why Wegovy Pens Leak
Most Wegovy leaks are related to injection technique rather than a pen malfunction [1.2.1]. Understanding the pen's mechanics is key to prevention.
The Wegovy auto-injector is designed to deliver its dose subcutaneously (under the skin) over about 10 seconds [1.2.3]. During this time, you should hear two clicks. The first click indicates the injection has started, and the yellow bar in the viewing window begins to move. The second click signifies the injection is still in progress [1.4.1, 1.8.2]. The injection is only complete when the yellow bar stops moving [1.8.1].
Common causes for leaks include:
- Removing the Pen Too Soon: This is the most frequent cause. You must keep the pen pressed firmly against your skin until the yellow plunger has completely stopped moving [1.2.3, 1.4.6].
- Insufficient Pressure: The pen needs to be held firmly against the skin for the entire duration. If not enough pressure is applied, the full dose may not be delivered correctly [1.2.4, 1.5.2].
- Injection Site Choice: Some evidence suggests leakage is more common in the upper arms and thighs compared to the lower abdomen [1.2.1]. The abdomen may provide a better site for absorption.
A Guide to Proper Wegovy Injection Technique
Mastering the correct technique is the best way to prevent leaks and ensure you receive your full dose.
Preparation
- Inspect the Pen: Check the expiration date and ensure the medication is clear and colorless. Small air bubbles are normal [1.2.1, 1.4.2]. Do not use a pen that is damaged or has been dropped [1.4.3].
- Choose and Clean Your Site: Select a site on your lower stomach (at least 2 inches from your belly button), the front of your upper thighs, or the back of your upper arms [1.4.2]. Rotate your injection site each week to prevent skin irritation and hardening [1.2.1]. Clean the skin with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely [1.4.1].
Administration
- Remove the Cap: Pull the pen cap straight off.
- Press and Click: Press the pen firmly against your skin at a 90-degree angle. You will hear the first click as the injection begins [1.2.1].
- Hold and Watch: Continue to hold the pen firmly. You will hear a second click. Keep watching the pen window until the yellow bar stops moving. This process takes about 5-10 seconds [1.4.1, 1.8.3].
- Count and Remove: After the yellow bar stops, some sources recommend waiting a few extra seconds (up to 10) before slowly lifting the pen away from your skin [1.2.1].
- Dispose Safely: Immediately place the used pen in an FDA-approved sharps container [1.2.4].
Comparison: Normal Droplet vs. Problematic Leak
It's important to distinguish between what's normal and what indicates a problem.
| Feature | Small Droplet (Normal) | Significant Leak (A Concern) |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | A single, tiny bead of clear liquid at the injection site or needle tip after removal [1.5.3]. | A visible stream, squirt, or pool of liquid on the skin during or after the injection [1.2.4, 1.5.2]. |
| Timing | Seen only after the pen is removed from the skin [1.5.3]. | Occurs while the needle is still in the skin or immediately upon removal [1.5.2]. |
| Yellow Plunger | The yellow plunger in the pen window was observed to have stopped moving before removal [1.8.1]. | The pen may have been pulled away before the yellow plunger stopped moving [1.2.1]. |
| Action Needed | None. This is common and does not affect the dose's efficacy [1.5.1, 1.5.5]. Dab with gauze if needed [1.5.6]. | Do not re-inject. Review injection technique for the next dose. If it persists, contact your doctor or the manufacturer [1.2.2]. |
When to Contact Support
If you consistently experience leaks or suspect the pen is malfunctioning, you should seek help.
- Contact your Healthcare Provider: For medical advice, concerns about missed doses, or if leaks happen repeatedly despite correct technique [1.2.1].
- Contact Novo Nordisk: If the pen seems damaged, the yellow bar doesn't move, or you suspect a product defect. The support line for Wegovy® is 1-833-934-6891 [1.2.2, 1.7.3]. They may be able to offer a replacement pen.
Conclusion: Ensuring Confidence in Your Wegovy Treatment
While a leaking Wegovy pen can be concerning, it is usually a minor issue caused by technique rather than a faulty product. The most critical takeaway is to never re-dose. A small amount of lost medication is unlikely to impact the overall effectiveness of your weekly treatment [1.5.1]. By focusing on a firm, steady injection technique—holding the pen in place until the yellow plunger stops—users can minimize the chances of leakage. If problems persist, your healthcare provider and the manufacturer, Novo Nordisk, are valuable resources for guidance and support.
