Standard Starting Dose for Ozempic
Ozempic (semaglutide) begins at 0.25 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly for 4 weeks. This initial dose helps minimize gastrointestinal side effects like nausea.[1]
How to Increase the Dose
After 4 weeks, increase to 0.5 mg once weekly. If blood sugar control needs improvement and the patient tolerates it, raise to 1 mg once weekly after at least 4 more weeks. The maximum dose is 2 mg once weekly, stepped up similarly after another 4 weeks on 1 mg.[1][2]
Days and Timing for Injections
Inject on the same day each week, any time of day, with or without food. If switching days, wait at least 48 hours between doses. Use a new needle each time; rotate sites like abdomen, thigh, or upper arm.[1]
Dose Adjustments for Kidney or Liver Issues
No changes needed for mild to moderate kidney or liver impairment. Use caution in severe cases; no specific adjustments listed. Elderly patients follow the same schedule.[1][2]
What If a Dose Is Missed
Take it within 5 days. If more than 5 days late, skip and resume the regular schedule. Do not double up.[1]
Dosing for Weight Loss vs. Diabetes
Same schedule for type 2 diabetes or chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight plus comorbidities. Pediatric use (ages 12+) starts at 0.25 mg weekly, up to 2 mg.[1][2]
How Ozempic Compares to Wegovy Dosing
Wegovy (also semaglutide) starts at 0.25 mg weekly but titrates higher faster—to 2.4 mg maximum—for weight loss only. Ozempic caps at 2 mg off-label for weight.[2]
[1]: Ozempic Prescribing Information (Novo Nordisk)
[2]: FDA Label for Ozempic