Ozempic (semaglutide) is FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes but is widely used off-label for weight loss. This guide covers the complete dosing schedule, available pen strengths, and what to expect during your titration journey.
About Ozempic
Ozempic contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. While it's FDA-approved for type 2 diabetes, many doctors prescribe it off-label for weight loss due to its appetite-suppressing effects. It's the same active ingredient as Wegovy, but with a lower maximum dose.
Ozempic Dosage Chart
| Phase | Weeks | Dose | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | 1-4 | 0.25 mg | Body adjustment (not therapeutic) |
| Titration | 5-8 | 0.5 mg | First therapeutic dose |
| Maintenance | 9+ | 1 mg | Standard maintenance dose |
| Maximum | Optional | 2 mg | For additional glycemic control |
Off-Label Use Note
For weight loss, many providers will continue increasing beyond 1 mg up to 2 mg if needed. When prescribed specifically for weight loss, Wegovy (which goes up to 2.4 mg) is the FDA-approved option.
What to Expect at Each Dose
The starting dose helps your body adjust:
- • Not a therapeutic dose—primarily for adjustment
- • Mild side effects may occur (nausea, headache)
- • Some people notice slight appetite changes
- • Minimal to no weight loss expected
- • Blood sugar effects begin for diabetics
The first therapeutic dose:
- • Noticeable appetite suppression begins
- • You may feel full faster when eating
- • Side effects may temporarily increase
- • Weight loss starts for many (3-5 lbs)
- • Significant blood sugar improvement
The standard maintenance dose:
- • Strong appetite suppression
- • "Food noise" significantly quieter
- • Steady weight loss of 1-2 lbs per week
- • Most people stay at this dose long-term
- • Optimal blood sugar control for diabetes
The maximum Ozempic dose:
- • Available if 1 mg isn't providing adequate results
- • Maximum appetite suppression
- • May help break through plateaus
- • Not all patients need this dose
- • For more weight loss, Wegovy goes to 2.4 mg
Ozempic Pen Options
Ozempic comes in multi-dose pens with different configurations:
| Pen Type | Doses Available | Clicks per Dose | Doses per Pen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Red Label Pen | 0.25 mg or 0.5 mg | Click to desired dose | 4-6 doses (depending on dose) |
| Blue Label Pen (1 mg) | 1 mg only | Fixed dose | 4 doses |
| Blue Label Pen (2 mg) | 2 mg only | Fixed dose | 4 doses |
How to Use the Ozempic Pen
Prepare the Pen
Remove the cap and attach a new needle. For new pens, prime by dialing to the flow check symbol and pressing until a drop appears.
Select Your Dose
Turn the dose selector until your prescribed dose appears in the window. For fixed-dose pens, the dose is pre-set.
Inject
Insert the needle into your stomach, thigh, or upper arm. Press and hold the button until the dose counter shows 0. Keep the needle in for 6 seconds.
Dispose Safely
Remove the needle and dispose of it in a sharps container. Replace the pen cap for storage.
Managing Ozempic Side Effects
Common Side Effects
- • Nausea
- • Vomiting
- • Diarrhea
- • Stomach pain
- • Constipation
Tips for Relief
- • Eat smaller meals
- • Avoid greasy/fatty foods
- • Stay hydrated
- • Try ginger for nausea
- • Eat slowly and stop when full
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose and it's been less than 5 days, take it as soon as you remember. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next dose on the regularly scheduled day.
Can I stay at 0.5 mg?
Yes. While 1 mg is the recommended maintenance dose, some people achieve their goals at 0.5 mg. Discuss with your provider what dose is right for you based on your results and tolerance.
How long does one pen last?
The starter pen (0.25/0.5 mg) provides about 6 weeks of doses during titration. The 1 mg and 2 mg pens each contain 4 weekly doses (1 month supply).
Storage and Handling
- Before first use: Store in refrigerator (36°F to 46°F / 2°C to 8°C)
- After first use: Can be kept at room temperature (up to 86°F / 30°C) or refrigerated for up to 56 days
- Never freeze Ozempic or use it if it has been frozen
- Keep away from light and store with the cap on
Getting Ozempic
Ozempic requires a prescription. Many telehealth platforms can prescribe it for type 2 diabetes, and some prescribe it off-label for weight loss. Compounded semaglutide is another option that follows the same dosing principles. Check out our provider reviews to compare options.
The Bottom Line
Ozempic's titration schedule starts at 0.25 mg and increases to 1 mg (or 2 mg if needed) over several weeks. The gradual increase minimizes side effects while allowing your body to adjust. Most people find their sweet spot at 1 mg, which provides effective appetite suppression and blood sugar control with manageable side effects.