Wegovy (Semaglutide 2.4 mg) Injection Site Reactions: Severity Grading Rubric and Management

What the Wegovy label reports

The safety data come from 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in 2,116 adults taking Wegovy 2.4 mg weekly and 1,261 taking placebo, for up to 68 weeks [1]. Injection site reactions were reported by 1.4% of Wegovy-treated adults and 1% of placebo-treated adults [1].

The label's main adverse reaction table lists events occurring in at least 2% of patients and more often than placebo; injection site reactions, at 1.4% versus 1%, fall below that cutoff [1].

What the label says about injecting Wegovy

The label directs once-weekly subcutaneous injection into the abdomen, thigh or upper arm [1]. The time of day and the injection site can be changed without a dose adjustment [1].

The label also says to train patients on the specific Wegovy presentation they receive, and to repeat training if the presentation changes [1]. It says to inspect the solution before each use and use it only if clear, colorless and free of particles [1].

When the label points to hypersensitivity rather than a local reaction

The label contraindicates Wegovy in people with a prior serious hypersensitivity reaction to semaglutide or to any excipient in Wegovy [1]. Anaphylaxis and angioedema have been reported with Wegovy [1]. The warning section says to discontinue Wegovy if a hypersensitivity reaction is suspected [1]. The label gives no size or duration threshold for a local reaction that would change this.