• Weight Management

Wegovy Doses for Weight Loss

Medically reviewed and edited by Dr. Banita Sehgal

Published: January 19, 2024
Updated: November 12, 2024
5 mins

Obesity poses a significant challenge to many Americans, affecting both personal and social well-being. Wegovy – a medication tailored for obesity management – has helped many achieve their weight loss goals.

However, achieving success with Wegovy isn't as simple as one, two, three. Proper dosing and scheduling can maximize its effectiveness.

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What is Wegovy?

Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication used to promote weight loss in those who are overweight or struggling with obesity. . It belongs to the class of drugs called glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists.

Wegovy works by mimicking the effects of GLP-1 – a naturally occurring hormone that regulates appetite and food intake. By activating the GLP-1 receptor, Wegovy helps control hunger and promote a feeling of fullness, leading to reduced calorie consumption and subsequent weight loss.

How is Wegovy Used?

Wegovy is administered through subcutaneous injections, typically once a week. These injections are designed to be self-administered by the patient, following proper training and guidance from a healthcare professional.

The medication comes in pre-filled injection pens, making it convenient for users to take the prescribed dose without much hassle.

How to Take Wegovy

Taking Wegovy involves a fairly straightforward process. Before using the injection, it is recommended to carefully read and follow the instructions provided in the medication guide.

The injection should be administered under the skin (subcutaneously) of the abdomen, thigh, or upper arm. Regularly rotating injection sites can help prevent irritation and ensure consistent absorption of the medication.

Wegovy strengths

Wegovy doses are offered in different strengths to cater to varying patient needs. Prescribers determine the appropriate form, strength, and dosage based on age, medical condition, and individual response.

The selection of the right form and strength is not tied to the severity of symptoms but rather to the individual’s unique requirements. Wegovy comes in liquid solution form to accommodate different preferences and needs with various milligram options.

Wegovy injections pens are available in the following strengths:

• 0.25 milligrams of drug per 0.5 milliliters of solution (0.25 mg/0.5 mL)

• 0.5 mg/0.5 mL

• 1 mg/0.5 mL

• 1.7 mg/0.75 mL

• 2.4 mg/0.75 mL

Please be aware that each Wegovy pen is designed to deliver a single dose; there are no multiple doses per pen. For each Wegovy dose, it is necessary to use a new pen.

Wegovy Dosing Schedule for Weight Loss in Adults

The recommended Wegovy dosage for weight loss in adults is a once-weekly injection. The initial dose is usually lower, gradually increasing over several weeks to minimize the risk of side effects.

Common Wegovy side effects include:

• Stomach pain

• Upset stomach

• Nausea and vomiting

• Headaches

• Dizziness

• Constipation

Healthcare providers may adjust the dosage based on individual patient needs, considering factors such as response to treatment, tolerability, and overall health.

It is essential for individuals to adhere to their prescribed dosing schedule to maximize the benefits of Wegovy.

Wegovy Dosing Schedule for Weight Loss in Children & Adolescents

As of December 23, 2022, Wegovy (semaglutide) received FDA approval for adolescents aged 12 and above with a BMI at or above the 95th percentile for their age and sex, according to information from Novo Nordisk.

Currently, the use of Wegovy for adolescents is not fully established. However, a study indicates that among adolescents grappling with obesity, incorporating a 2.4-mg dose of semaglutide on a weekly basis, along with exercise and diet, yielded a more substantial reduction in BMI compared to relying solely on lifestyle intervention.

It’s important to consult with a pediatrician or specialist for guidance on appropriate interventions for weight loss in children and adolescents.

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Wegovy Dosage Considerations

Several factors influence the Wegovy dosage prescribed to individuals. These considerations include the patient's overall health, existing medical conditions and response to treatment.

Potential interactions with other medications include:

• Other weight management medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro

• Insulin and other diabetes medications

• Oral contraception and other hormone therapies

• Anticoagulants or antiplatelet medications

• Thyroid medications

• Psychiatric medications or antidepressants

• Pain medication like ibuprofen

• Immunosuppressant medications

• Supplements containing stimulants like caffeine

Interactions with other substance include:

• Herbal remedies

• Alcohol

Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should inform their healthcare provider before starting Wegovy, as its safety in these situations is not well-established.

Close monitoring by healthcare professionals ensures that the dosage is adjusted as needed to achieve the desired weight loss goals.

What if I Miss a Dose of Wegovy?

Consistency in taking Wegovy is essential for achieving the best outcomes. If a dose is missed, it is advised to take it as soon as possible within five days of the missed dose.

If more than five days have passed, it is recommended to skip the missed dose and resume the regular once-weekly schedule.

Doubling up on doses or taking extra injections to make up for a missed dose is not recommended and can increase the risk of side effects.

Where Can I Learn More About Wegovy?

If you’re struggling with weight management, LifeMD can help you reach your goals.

The LifeMD Weight Management Program combines groundbreaking medications, lab testing, and the knowledge of leading clinicians to create a highly effective — and truly sustainable — weight-loss approach.

Healthcare professionals can prescribe weight management medications for you, if necessary and if you qualify.

Dr. Banita Sehgal

Dr. Sehgal received her medical degree from Western University in Los Angeles and trained as Chief Resident at White Memorial Medical Center, also in Los Angeles. She’s been practicing medicine for 20+ years and has a specific interest in women’s health.

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