A different pen strength
Starting dose, 4 weeks
Its purpose is to help your body adjust and reduce side effects. It is not a maintenance dose.
Your dose, step by step.
Gradual increases give your body time to adjust. Do not increase the dose simply because the scale has not changed for one week.
A different pen strength
Usual next dose
After at least 4 weeks, if the starting dose is well tolerated.
A different pen strength
Available when needed
Do not increase if nausea, vomiting, or constipation is troublesome.
A different pen strength
Available when needed
Stay on it if it works well. You do not need to move higher.
A different pen strength
Available when needed
Used after reviewing appetite, weight change, and side effects with your doctor.
A different pen strength
Highest available dose
Used only if needed and well tolerated.
The golden rule
Start with 2.5 mg once weekly for 4 weeks, then 5 mg. Any later increase is by 2.5 mg after at least 4 weeks and in agreement with your doctor.
If you miss a dose or change the day
Count from your usual dose time
Take the dose
Take it when you remember, then return to your usual day, keeping at least 3 days between doses.
Skip the dose
Do not replace or double it. Take the next dose on your usual day.
If you have missed more than one dose, contact your doctor before restarting. You may need to restart at a lower dose.
The multi-dose pen
Four full doses, not five
You can look at the transparent medicine chamber, but rely on the dose counter and the pen instructions.
After dose 1
About 3 doses remain.
After dose 2
About 2 doses remain.
After dose 3
About 1 dose remains.
After dose 4
A small amount may remain, but it is not a fifth dose.
Do not withdraw the remainder with a syringe.
The small amount left after dose four is not a guaranteed fifth dose.
The small amount left after dose four is not a guaranteed fifth dose.
How to inject
Seven calm, safe steps
Check
Confirm the name, strength, expiry date, and that the medicine is clear.
Attach a new needle
Do not leave the needle attached between doses.
Prime the pen
Follow your pen instructions before every dose.
Set the dose
Turn the knob until a full dose appears.
Choose the site
Use the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.
Inject and wait
Press and hold until the counter finishes, following the leaflet.
Dispose of the needle
Use a rigid sharps container, and never share the pen.
Avoid the navel and inflamed or bruised skin. Do not inject into muscle.
Storage
Protect the pen from heat and freezing
Before use
Keep refrigerated in the original carton, away from light.
If frozen
Do not use it, and do not place it directly against ice when travelling.
After first use
Keep below 30°C for up to 30 days.
In the car
Never leave it in a hot car or in direct sunlight.