Written by Angie Carter, health writer at Shed
Many people have questions about dosing when starting a new GLP-1 medication like Ozempic® (semaglutide). Each GLP-1 agonist is a little different, which affects how much you will take and how quickly you will ramp up to the maintenance dose.
What are GLP-1 agonists?
GLP-1 agonists mimic a hormone the body naturally produces: glucagon-like peptide (GLP-1). The GLP-1 hormone helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, which slows digestion, curbs hunger, and leads to better glucose control. By mimicking this hormone, GLP-1 agonists have helped people lose weight, eat less, and maintain steadier blood sugar levels.
What is Ozempic®?
Ozempic® (semaglutide) is a once-weekly injectable medication that works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which stimulates insulin release, slows digestion, and curbs appetite. It is FDA-approved to treat type 2 diabetes and has also been studied for weight-related effects.
Ozempic® dosing schedule
Each person’s dosage amount and schedule is different and will be determined by their medical provider. The schedule below is just a general outline of what your dosage schedule could look like:
- Weeks 1–4: 0.25 mg, injected weekly
- Weeks 5–8: 0.5 mg, injected weekly
- Weeks 9 and beyond (maintenance): 1 mg, injected weekly
Medication is prescribed only after consultation with a licensed provider to determine appropriateness.
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Ozempic® dosing FAQs
How often do I take Ozempic®?
Ozempic® is taken weekly via subcutaneous injection, usually into the thigh or abdomen. You should take it on the same day each week.
What if I miss a dose or need to adjust my dose?
Talk to your medical provider if you miss a dose or think you might need a dose adjustment.
How does dosing for Ozempic® compare to Wegovy® and Mounjaro®?
Each drug has different dosing amounts and schedules. For an overview of dosing for Wegovy® and Mounjaro®, see the links below:
