What is the starting dose of semaglutide?

Injectable semaglutide for weight management typically starts at a low dose — commonly 0.25 mg once weekly — and is increased gradually over several weeks under physician guidance to reduce side effects. Your exact starting dose and titration schedule are individualized by your physician based on your health history and how you tolerate the medication. Never set or change your own dose.

Why treatment starts low

A low starting dose lets your body adjust and minimizes side effects like nausea. The dose is then stepped up on a schedule — often every 4 weeks — until you reach an effective maintenance dose that balances results and tolerability.

Individualized by your physician

The right starting dose and pace depend on your medical history, other medications, and response. Compounded formulations may be dosed differently than brand-name products. Follow your physician's specific instructions and report side effects rather than adjusting on your own.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Michael Mimlitz, MD (NPI 1508891870), Chief Physician of GOAL.MD. Physician-supervised telehealth. More at goal.md/answers.