weight loss
∙3 minute read
You might notice bubbles in your injection pen if you use weight loss medications like Mounjaro or Wegovy. It’s a common occurrence and nothing to worry about, but knowing how to handle it correctly is important to ensure an effective dose.
Bubbles in your pen can happen during priming or air can also enter through the injection process. Most of the time, these bubbles are small and harmless, and they won’t affect the effectiveness of your dose.1
Unlike syringes used for other medications, the pens for Mounjaro and Wegovy are designed to make self-injection simple. Small air bubbles in the pen won’t harm you because the pen delivers the medication under the skin (subcutaneous injection), not into a vein.
Trying to remove bubbles from your pen isn’t recommended because it can lead to medication wastage or even damage to the pen.
Follow these steps to make sure your injection is as safe and effective as possible:
Inspect the pen: Before you inject, check the pen to ensure the medication is clear and colorless. Small bubbles are fine, but if you notice any large bubbles or anything unusual, contact your healthcare provider or the pharmacy where you received the pen. If you're worried, consider taking a clear photo of the pen and sending it to your healthcare provider for advice.
Prepare the pen as instructed: Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet or as directed by your healthcare professional. This typically includes attaching the needle, selecting your dose, and performing the injection.
Inject at a 90-degree angle: When you inject, hold the pen firmly against your skin at a 90-degree angle. This ensures that the medication is delivered properly, regardless of any small air bubbles present.
Dispose of the pen correctly: After use, discard the pen in a sharps disposal container as instructed.
Always follow the instructions in the patient information leaflet or speak to your healthcare provider to ensure proper use.1,2
If you notice a large bubble that seems to take up a significant portion of the liquid in the pen, or if you’re unable to inject the medication properly, it’s best to speak to a clinician. You should also contact us if:
The pen appears damaged in any way.
The medication is cloudy, discoloured, or has particles in it.
You’re unsure how to safely use the pen.
Small air bubbles in your Mounjaro or Wegovy pen are typically harmless and don’t need to be removed. By following the proper instructions for use and seeking advice when needed, you can ensure a safe and effective injection every time.
If you have any doubts or questions, always reach out to the clinical team for guidance.
1.) Novo Nordisk. (2024). Instructions for use: WEGOVY®. Novo Nordisk A/S. Retrieved from https://www.novo-pi.com/wegovy.pdf
2.) Eli Lilly Nederland B.V. (2024). Mounjaro® (tirzepatide) 2.5 mg, 5 mg, 7.5 mg, 10 mg, 12.5 mg, 15 mg KwikPen® solution for injection in pre-filled pen: Package leaflet. Utrecht, The Netherlands https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.15481.pdf
