Wegovy Dosing Schedule: Your Complete Week-by-Week Guide

Wegovy follows a structured dose escalation over 16-20 weeks, gradually building to the 2.4mg maintenance dose. This careful titration reduces side effects and allows your body to adapt to the medication. Understanding what to expect at each phase helps you prepare for and navigate your weight loss treatment successfully.

The Five-Phase Titration Schedule

Wegovy comes in five different dose strengths, each used for approximately four weeks before progressing to the next level:

Phase 1: Starting at 0.25mg (Weeks 1-4)

The initial dose introduces semaglutide to your system at the lowest effective level. Most people notice subtle changes: slightly reduced appetite, perhaps feeling satisfied sooner during meals. Weight loss at this stage is minimal—typically 1-2kg—as the purpose is adaptation, not maximum effect.

What to expect:

• Mild nausea possible, usually subsides within days
• Subtle appetite reduction
• Injection site may show minor redness (normal)
• Energy levels typically unchanged

Tips for Phase 1:

• Choose a consistent injection day each week
• Rotate injection sites (abdomen, thigh, upper arm)
• Eat smaller meals to prevent discomfort
• Stay hydrated—drink at least 2 liters of water daily

Phase 2: Building to 0.5mg (Weeks 5-8)

Doubling the dose brings more noticeable appetite suppression. Many patients report thinking about food less frequently and finding it easier to pass on snacks or second helpings. Weight loss becomes more apparent, typically 2-3kg during this phase.

What to expect:

• More pronounced appetite reduction
• Possible return of mild nausea during first week
• Food cravings begin to diminish
• Portion sizes naturally decrease

Tips for Phase 2:

• Focus on protein-rich foods to maintain muscle
• Avoid greasy or heavy foods that may trigger nausea
• Take walks after meals to aid digestion
• Begin tracking food intake if you haven't already

Phase 3: Reaching 1mg (Weeks 9-12)

The 1mg dose marks a turning point for many patients. Appetite suppression becomes significant, and the relationship with food starts to fundamentally shift. Weight loss accelerates, with many losing 3-5kg during this four-week period.

What to expect:

• Strong appetite suppression
• Possible constipation as food intake decreases
• Reduced interest in previously tempting foods
• Noticeable weight loss visible to others

Tips for Phase 3:

• Increase fiber intake to prevent constipation
• Eat slowly and mindfully—fullness signals come faster
• Consider a multivitamin if food variety decreases
• Start or maintain regular exercise routine

Phase 4: The 1.7mg Step (Weeks 13-16)

This dose is unique to Wegovy and doesn't exist in other semaglutide products. It bridges the gap between 1mg and the 2.4mg maintenance dose, making the final transition smoother. Weight loss continues at a steady pace.

What to expect:

• Continued strong appetite control
• Body adapting well to treatment
• Steady weight loss (though rate may slow from initial phases)
• Improved energy as excess weight decreases

Tips for Phase 4:

• Maintain protein intake to preserve muscle mass
• Increase physical activity as energy improves
• Take progress photos—visual changes often exceed scale changes
• Note improvements in how clothes fit

Phase 5: Maintenance at 2.4mg (Week 17 Onward)

Reaching the maintenance dose represents full treatment intensity. This is the dose studied in the STEP clinical trials that produced average weight loss of 15% of body weight. You'll remain at this dose for the duration of treatment.

What to expect:

• Maximum appetite suppression achieved
• Weight loss continues for 12-18 months from treatment start
• Eventually weight stabilizes at a lower set point
• Ongoing treatment maintains weight loss

Tips for maintenance:

• Establish sustainable eating habits for long-term success
• Regular check-ins with healthcare provider
• Continue strength training to maintain muscle
• Monitor for any changes in side effects

Handling Dose Adjustment Challenges

Not everyone moves through the titration at the standard pace. Your healthcare provider may recommend:

• Extended time at a dose: If side effects persist, staying at the current dose longer allows better adaptation
• Dose reduction: Temporarily stepping back to a tolerated dose, then trying to advance again
• Maintenance at lower dose: Some patients achieve their goals at 1.7mg and don't need 2.4mg

Personalizing the schedule based on your response optimizes both effectiveness and tolerability.

Injection Timing and Consistency

Wegovy is injected once weekly, ideally on the same day each week. You can take it at any time of day, with or without food. If you miss a dose:

• If within 5 days: Take the missed dose as soon as possible
• If more than 5 days: Skip the missed dose and take the next one on your regular day
• Never double up doses

Consistency helps maintain steady medication levels in your body. Set a weekly reminder to ensure you don't miss doses.

Tracking Your Progress

Keep a simple log of:

• Injection date and site used
• Current dose
• Weekly weight (same conditions each time)
• Any side effects experienced
• Changes in appetite or eating patterns

This information helps your healthcare provider optimize your treatment and address any concerns quickly.