Patient-Friendly Explanation

Lipohypertrophy is the buildup of fatty lumps under the skin, commonly occurring at injection sites in people who use injectable medications like insulin or GLP-1 receptor agonists. Rotating injection sites and using proper technique can help prevent this condition, which can interfere with medication absorption if left unmanaged.

Clinical Definition

Lipohypertrophy is a localised accumulation of subcutaneous adipose tissue caused by the lipogenic effect of repeated insulin or other injectable medication administration at the same site. It results in palpable, rubbery subcutaneous masses that can impair drug absorption by up to 25 percent, leading to variable glycaemic control and unpredictable therapeutic response. Prevalence ranges from 15 to 50 percent among insulin-treated patients.

Why It Matters

For patients using injectable weight loss medications such as semaglutide or tirzepatide, proper injection technique directly impacts treatment effectiveness. At NuLifeCare Singapore, we educate every patient on injection site rotation and monitor for lipohypertrophy as part of our comprehensive medical weight management programme to ensure optimal medication absorption and results.