Wegovy contains semaglutide and supports chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight. It mimics a hormone that regulates appetite and food intake. Weekly injections help reduce calories naturally when paired with diet and exercise. Many achieve meaningful loss with consistent use.
Dosing starts low to build tolerance and ease side effects. Gradual increases occur every four weeks. This titration leads to a maintenance dose for ongoing benefits. Doctors customize the plan based on response.
This article presents the standard Wegovy dosing chart. It details each step, administration tips, and factors for adjustments. Readers gain clear guidance for safe progression. Follow your prescriber’s exact instructions always.
Wegovy Dosing Basics and Purpose
Wegovy delivers semaglutide subcutaneously once weekly. It comes in prefilled pens with fixed doses. Strengths include 0.25 mg, 0.5 mg, 1 mg, 1.7 mg, and 2.4 mg. Each pen lasts one week.
The schedule escalates doses to minimize gastrointestinal issues. Starting low allows adaptation. Maintenance focuses on sustained weight control. The recommended long-term dose reaches 2.4 mg for most adults.
Pens arrive in color-coded boxes for easy identification. Use one pen per week on the same day. Timing stays flexible throughout the day.
Starting Dose and First Month
Begin with 0.25 mg once weekly for weeks 1 through 4. This initiation dose introduces the medication gently. It reduces nausea and other early discomforts. Focus remains on tolerance during this phase.
After four weeks, move to 0.5 mg weekly. This step begins meaningful appetite suppression. Stay on 0.5 mg for another four weeks minimum. Monitor how your body adjusts.
The low starting dose prevents overwhelming side effects. Skipping escalation increases risks. Patience supports smoother treatment overall.
Full Wegovy Dose Escalation Schedule
Follow this standard progression:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg once weekly
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg once weekly
- Weeks 9–12: 1 mg once weekly
- Weeks 13–16: 1.7 mg once weekly
- Week 17 and onward: 2.4 mg once weekly (maintenance)
Each increase waits at least four weeks. Your doctor may extend a dose longer for better tolerance. The 2.4 mg level serves as the primary maintenance for weight management.
Some stay at 1.7 mg if it provides good results with fewer issues. Adjustments depend on weight loss progress and side effects. Consistency keeps benefits steady.
Wegovy Dosing Chart Overview
| Time Period | Weekly Dose (mg) | Phase Description | Key Focus During Period | Common Adjustments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1–4 | 0.25 | Initiation / Adaptation | Minimize GI side effects; body gets used to drug | Hold if severe nausea; no rush to increase |
| Weeks 5–8 | 0.5 | Early escalation | Build tolerance; initial appetite changes | Extend if needed for comfort |
| Weeks 9–12 | 1.0 | Mid escalation | Stronger satiety; monitor progress | Assess response before next step |
| Weeks 13–16 | 1.7 | Advanced escalation | Enhanced weight loss; evaluate tolerability | Option for maintenance if 2.4 mg too strong |
| Week 17+ | 2.4 | Maintenance (recommended) | Sustained results; long-term management | Hold or reduce if side effects persist |
How to Administer Wegovy at Any Dose
Inject under the skin in the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Rotate sites weekly to avoid irritation. Clean the area first and let it dry. Pens deliver the dose automatically.
Take it any day or time that fits your routine. Consistency in weekly schedule matters most. If you miss a dose, inject soon if within two days. Skip if closer to next dose and resume normally.
Store unused pens in the refrigerator. In-use pens last up to 28 days at room temperature. Protect from light and freezing.
Factors Influencing Your Dosing Adjustments
Side effects often slow escalation. Persistent nausea may require holding a dose longer. Your doctor prioritizes comfort alongside progress. Most adapt over time.
Weight loss speed affects decisions too. Slower results sometimes prompt quicker increases. Starting BMI and health conditions guide personalization. Regular weigh-ins track effectiveness.
Comorbidities like diabetes require coordination. Blood sugar monitoring stays important. Providers adjust based on overall health markers.
Tips for Smooth Dosing Experience
Eat smaller meals to ease digestion during changes. Focus on protein and fiber for satiety. Stay hydrated to prevent constipation. Gentle walks support comfort.
Log injections and symptoms in a journal. Share notes during appointments. This helps fine-tune the plan. Celebrate small milestones along the way.
- Set weekly reminders for dose day.
- Rotate injection sites consistently.
- Avoid high-fat foods early in escalation.
- Track weight and measurements monthly.
- Discuss concerns openly with your doctor.
Managing Common Side Effects by Dose Phase
Nausea peaks during increases. Eat bland foods and sip ginger tea. It usually lessens after adaptation. Smaller portions help significantly.
Diarrhea or constipation develops sometimes. Increase fiber slowly from whole foods. Over-the-counter options provide relief short-term. Hydration prevents escalation.
Headaches or fatigue occur rarely. Rest and balanced nutrition support energy. Report persistent issues for evaluation.
Conclusion
Wegovy dosing escalates gradually from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg weekly for effective weight management. This structured chart balances benefits with tolerability. Each step allows adaptation and progress monitoring. Combine with healthy habits for optimal results. Partner with your healthcare provider throughout for personalized success.
FAQ
What is the starting dose for Wegovy?
Start with 0.25 mg once weekly for four weeks. This low dose helps adaptation and cuts side effects. It prepares for stronger levels ahead. Follow your doctor’s exact plan.
How often do I increase the Wegovy dose?
Increase every four weeks minimum. This allows time to assess tolerance. Your provider decides based on response. Never change without guidance.
What is the maintenance dose for Wegovy?
The recommended maintenance reaches 2.4 mg once weekly. Some use 1.7 mg long-term. It depends on results and comfort. Higher doses suit specific needs.
Can I stay on a lower dose like 1 mg?
Yes, if it controls weight well with good tolerance. Maintenance varies individually. Your doctor evaluates ongoing progress. Lower doses reduce side effect risks.
What if I miss a Wegovy dose?
Inject soon if within two days of schedule. Skip if more time passes. Resume regular timing next week. Avoid double dosing.
Does Wegovy dosing differ for other conditions?
Dosing follows the same escalation for weight management. Adjustments occur for comorbidities. Discuss specifics with your prescriber. Consistency remains key.
How long until I reach the full 2.4 mg dose?
Standard escalation takes about 16–20 weeks. Slower steps extend this timeline. Patience improves overall experience. Monitor progress at each level.
Can I take Wegovy at any time of day?
Yes, inject any time with or without food. Weekly consistency matters more. Change days if needed with spacing. Flexibility fits routines.
What if side effects stop me from increasing dose?
Your doctor may extend the current dose or reduce it. Manage symptoms with diet tweaks. Most improve with time. Report issues for safe adjustments.
Are Wegovy pens different for each dose?
Yes, pens match specific strengths and colors. Use only the prescribed pen. Each delivers one weekly dose. Follow storage rules carefully.
Dr. Usman is a medical content reviewer with 12+ years of experience in healthcare research and patient education. He specializes in evidence-based health information, medications, and chronic health topics. His work is based on trusted medical sources and current clinical guidelines to ensure accuracy, transparency, and reliability. Content reviewed by Dr. Usman is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice.