Wegovy Dosage for Weight Loss: Complete Dosing Guide
A complete guide to Wegovy dosing for weight loss, including the official titration schedule, maintenance dose, and how to manage side effects during dose increases.
Start your GLP-1 weight-loss plan today
Get matched with a US telehealth provider, approved online, and have medication shipped to your door.
Check my eligibilityAvailable online. Shipped directly to your door anywhere in the US.
Available online. Shipped directly to your door anywhere in the US.
What is Wegovy?
Wegovy is the brand-name version of semaglutide 2.4 mg, a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for chronic weight management. It is given as a once-weekly injection and has been shown to help patients lose about 15% of their body weight on average.
The dose is increased gradually to reduce side effects and help the body adjust. This guide explains the official Wegovy dosing schedule and how it is used for weight loss.
Wegovy dosing schedule
Wegovy comes in a pre-filled single-dose pen. The standard titration schedule is:
- Weeks 1 to 4: 0.25 mg once weekly
- Weeks 5 to 8: 0.5 mg once weekly
- Weeks 9 to 12: 1 mg once weekly
- Weeks 13 to 16: 1.7 mg once weekly
- Week 17 and beyond: 2.4 mg once weekly
The dose is raised every 4 weeks until the maximum maintenance dose of 2.4 mg is reached. Some providers may move more slowly depending on side effects.
Wegovy dosing chart
| Week | Dose | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | 0.25 mg | Starting dose |
| 5-8 | 0.5 mg | Early titration |
| 9-12 | 1 mg | Increased appetite suppression |
| 13-16 | 1.7 mg | Approaching maintenance |
| 17+ | 2.4 mg | Maintenance dose |
How is Wegovy injected?
Wegovy is injected under the skin once per week, on the same day each week. It can be taken at any time of day, with or without food. Common injection sites include:
- Abdomen, at least 2 inches from the belly button
- Front of the thigh
- Back of the upper arm
Rotate injection sites each week to reduce irritation. The Wegovy pen is single-use and should be discarded after each injection.
What to do if you miss a dose
If you miss a dose and it has been less than 5 days since your scheduled dose, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose on your regular day.
If it has been more than 5 days, skip the missed dose and take your next dose on the regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
How to titrate Wegovy safely
The most important rule with Wegovy is to increase the dose slowly. Rapid increases raise the risk of nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Tips for safe titration include:
- Stay at each dose for at least 4 weeks unless your provider says otherwise
- Eat smaller, slower meals
- Avoid very fatty, fried, or spicy foods
- Drink plenty of water
- Stop increasing if side effects are severe
- Stay in regular contact with your provider
Can you stay on a lower dose of Wegovy?
Some patients achieve good weight loss on 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 1.7 mg and choose to stay at a lower dose. This is a medical decision based on your response and side effects. Never change your dose without consulting your provider.
Compounded semaglutide dosing vs Wegovy
Compounded semaglutide contains the same active ingredient as Wegovy but may be dosed differently depending on the pharmacy and telehealth program. Some compounded programs use weekly injections with flexible titration. Always follow the dosing instructions provided by your pharmacy and provider.
A licensed telehealth provider can help you choose between brand-name Wegovy and compounded semaglutide based on your goals and budget.
How long does it take to reach the maintenance dose?
Following the standard schedule, it takes about 16 weeks to reach the 2.4 mg maintenance dose. Some providers extend this timeline to reduce side effects.
Frequently asked questions
What is the highest dose of Wegovy?
The maximum maintenance dose is 2.4 mg injected once weekly.
What if I cannot tolerate the 2.4 mg dose?
Some providers keep patients at 1.7 mg or lower if side effects are significant. Do not change your dose without medical guidance.
Can I split my Wegovy dose?
No. Wegovy is designed as a once-weekly injection and should not be split into smaller doses unless specifically instructed by your provider.
How fast does Wegovy work?
Appetite suppression often begins within days. Visible weight loss usually starts within 2 to 4 weeks, with faster progress at higher doses.
Do I need to increase the dose every 4 weeks?
The standard schedule increases every 4 weeks, but your provider may adjust based on your side effects and progress.
Conclusion
The Wegovy dosing schedule starts at 0.25 mg weekly and increases gradually to a maintenance dose of 2.4 mg. Slow titration reduces side effects and improves tolerance. Some patients may stay at a lower dose if it works well. Always follow your provider's instructions and monitor side effects closely.
Ready to start Wegovy? Check your eligibility for a US telehealth semaglutide program and get a personalized dosing plan with home delivery.
Ready to take the next step?
Compare top US telehealth GLP-1 programs and start your medically supervised weight-loss journey.
Find my GLP-1 programAvailable online. Shipped directly to your door anywhere in the US.