How is the Wegovy dose increased over time?
Wegovy (semaglutide) is started at a low dose and increased in steps every 4 weeks. This gradual titration helps your body adjust and can reduce side effects like nausea. The typical UK schedule is:
- 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
- From week 17: 2.4 mg once weekly (maintenance)
Some people may remain on 1.7 mg long-term if that is the dose they tolerate and benefit from, based on clinical advice. Dose increases should not be sped up. If side effects are troublesome at any stage, clinicians may delay moving up a step until symptoms settle.
- Wegovy is increased in 4-week steps to improve tolerability and reduce side effects.
- Usual schedule: 0.25 mg → 0.5 mg → 1 mg → 1.7 mg → 2.4 mg, each step lasting 4 weeks.
- The maintenance dose is usually 2.4 mg weekly, but some may stay at 1.7 mg on clinician advice.
- Do not increase faster than recommended; speak to a prescriber if side effects occur.
- UK practice involves regular reviews to check progress and adjust the timing of dose increases.