Wegovy (semaglutide 2.4 mg) is the FDA-approved weight loss version of semaglutide. This guide walks you through the complete titration schedule from your first 0.25 mg dose all the way to the maintenance dose of 2.4 mg.
About Wegovy
Wegovy contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It's the same active ingredient as Ozempic but at a higher maximum dose (2.4 mg vs 2 mg) and specifically approved for chronic weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition.
Wegovy Dosage Chart
| Phase | Weeks | Dose | Pen Color | Expected Weight Loss |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting | 1-4 | 0.25 mg | Light Blue | 1-2% |
| Titration | 5-8 | 0.5 mg | Light Blue | 2-4% |
| Titration | 9-12 | 1 mg | Blue | 4-7% |
| Titration | 13-16 | 1.7 mg | Blue | 7-12% |
| Maintenance | 17+ | 2.4 mg | Dark Blue | 12-17% |
* Weight loss percentages are cumulative and based on clinical trial averages. Individual results vary based on diet, exercise, and individual metabolism.
What to Expect at Each Dose
This is purely an adjustment dose—not expected to produce significant weight loss:
- • Your body is getting used to the medication
- • Mild side effects may occur (nausea, headache)
- • Some appetite reduction possible
- • Weight loss minimal (0-3 lbs)
The first dose where you may notice therapeutic effects:
- • Appetite suppression becomes more noticeable
- • You may feel satisfied with smaller portions
- • Side effects may temporarily increase, then improve
- • Early weight loss begins (3-5 lbs cumulative)
A significant therapeutic dose where results accelerate:
- • Strong appetite suppression
- • "Food noise" significantly reduced
- • Steady weight loss of 1-2 lbs per week
- • This is Ozempic's standard maintenance dose
An enhanced dose unique to Wegovy:
- • Continued weight loss momentum
- • Very effective appetite control
- • Most side effects have subsided by now
- • Some patients maintain at this dose
The maintenance dose for long-term use:
- • Maximum therapeutic effect
- • Clinical trials showed ~15% average weight loss
- • Continue indefinitely for weight maintenance
- • Most effective dose for long-term results
Wegovy Pen Strengths
Wegovy comes in single-dose pens. Each pen contains one weekly dose:
| Dose | Pens per Box | Supply | Titration Phase |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.25 mg | 4 pens | 4 weeks | Month 1 |
| 0.5 mg | 4 pens | 4 weeks | Month 2 |
| 1 mg | 4 pens | 4 weeks | Month 3 |
| 1.7 mg | 4 pens | 4 weeks | Month 4 |
| 2.4 mg | 4 pens | 4 weeks | Maintenance |
Tips for Each Titration Phase
- • Inject on the same day each week
- • Rotate injection sites (stomach, thigh, arm)
- • Take your injection at the same time
- • Keep medication refrigerated until use
- • Track your progress and side effects
- • Skipping doses to "catch up"
- • Eating large meals despite reduced appetite
- • Not drinking enough water
- • Increasing dose too quickly
- • Stopping due to early side effects
Managing Wegovy Side Effects
Most Common Side Effects
- • Nausea (44% in trials)
- • Diarrhea (30%)
- • Vomiting (24%)
- • Constipation (24%)
- • Abdominal pain (20%)
Relief Strategies
- • Eat bland foods when nauseous
- • Avoid lying down after eating
- • Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
- • Ginger tea or ginger supplements
- • OTC remedies (Pepto, Gas-X) as needed
When to Seek Medical Help
Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience severe abdominal pain that doesn't go away, persistent vomiting, signs of dehydration, vision changes, or symptoms of an allergic reaction.
Wegovy vs Ozempic Dosing
While both contain semaglutide, their dosing differs:
| Feature | Wegovy | Ozempic |
|---|---|---|
| FDA Approval | Weight loss | Type 2 diabetes |
| Maximum Dose | 2.4 mg/week | 2 mg/week |
| Titration Steps | 5 steps | 4 steps |
| Time to Max Dose | 16 weeks | 16 weeks |
For more details, see our Ozempic Dosage Chart or our comparison of Semaglutide vs Ozempic.
Getting Wegovy
Wegovy requires a prescription and has experienced shortages. Many telehealth providers offer brand-name Wegovy when available or compounded semaglutide alternatives. Browse our provider reviews to find the best option for you.
The Bottom Line
Wegovy's 16-week titration schedule is designed to help you reach the 2.4 mg maintenance dose with minimal side effects. Be patient during the early phases—the lower doses are preparing your body for the therapeutic doses where real weight loss happens. Most people see their best results at the 2.4 mg maintenance dose.