Wegovy (semaglutide) is a prescription medication used for weight management in adults with obesity or overweight with at least one weight-related condition (such as high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, or high cholesterol). It is administered via injection once a week.
Wegovy (semaglutide) is available in the following doses:
1. 0.25 mg: Starting dose for the first 4 weeks (initial dose escalation phase)
2. 0.5 mg: Dose increased after 4 weeks if the 0.25 mg dose is tolerated
3. 1.0 mg: Dose increased after 4 weeks if the 0.5 mg dose is tolerated (optional)
4. 1.7 mg: Dose increased after 4 weeks if the 1.0 mg dose is tolerated (optional)
5. 2.25 mg: Maximum approved dose, typically reached after 12-16 weeks of dose escalation
The dose escalation schedule is designed to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and allow the body to adjust to the medication.
Note that Wegovy is administered via injection once a week, on an empty stomach, at least 30 minutes before the first meal of the day.