Recommended Starting Dose for Wegovy
Wegovy (semaglutide) starts at 0.25 mg injected subcutaneously once weekly for the first 4 weeks. This low dose helps patients adjust and reduces nausea risk.[1]
How Dosing Progresses
After 4 weeks, it increases stepwise:
- Weeks 5-8: 0.5 mg weekly
- Weeks 9-12: 1 mg weekly
- Weeks 13-16: 1.7 mg weekly
- Week 17 onward: 2.4 mg weekly (maintenance dose)
Doctors may pause escalation if side effects occur.[1]
Why Start Low?
The gradual ramp-up minimizes gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, which affect up to 44% of users early on.[1][2]
Who Sets the Dose?
Prescribers tailor based on tolerance and weight loss goals; it's FDA-approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight plus comorbidities.[1]
Missed Dose Instructions
If under 5 days late, inject ASAP and resume schedule. Over 5 days, skip and take next dose on time—never double up.[1]
Storage and Administration Tips
Store pens in fridge (36-46°F); room temperature okay for 28 days max. Inject into abdomen, thigh, or upper arm; rotate sites.[1]
[1]: Wegovy Prescribing Information (Novo Nordisk)
[2]: FDA Label for Wegovy