Basics of Semaglutide Dosing
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that is injected once a week. To minimize side effects and allow the body to adjust, it is important to start with a low dose and increase gradually.
Recommended Dosing Schedule
The clinical protocol for semaglutide follows a gradual escalation over several weeks:
Phase 1: Starting Dose (Week 1-4)
Dose: 0.25mg per week
During the first four weeks, you inject 0.25mg of semaglutide once a week. This dose is primarily to allow the body to get used to the medication and minimizes the risk of nausea and other GI side effects.
Phase 2: First Increase (Week 5-8)
Dose: 0.5mg per week
After four weeks at 0.25mg, increase to 0.5mg per week. Most people begin to notice effects on appetite and food intake during this phase.
Phase 3: Second Increase (Week 9-12)
Dose: 1.0mg per week
If you tolerate 0.5mg well, increase to 1.0mg. This is often the dose where weight loss accelerates.
Phase 4: Maintenance Dose (Week 13+)
Dose: 1.7mg - 2.4mg per week
Depending on your response and tolerance, the dose can be increased to 1.7mg and finally to 2.4mg for maximum effect.
Dosing Schedule in Tabular Form
| Week | Dose | Comment |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | 0.25mg | Starting dose - body adjusts |
| 5-8 | 0.5mg | First increase - effects begin to show |
| 9-12 | 1.0mg | Therapeutic dose - weight loss increases |
| 13-16 | 1.7mg | Enhanced effect |
| 17+ | 2.4mg | Max dose for optimal weight loss |
How to Calculate the Right Dose
If you have mixed 5mg of semaglutide in 2ml of BAC water, you get a concentration of 2.5mg/ml. Here is how to calculate the volume for each dose:
- 0.25mg: 0.1ml (10 units on an insulin syringe)
- 0.5mg: 0.2ml (20 units)
- 1.0mg: 0.4ml (40 units)
- 1.7mg: 0.68ml (68 units)
- 2.4mg: 0.96ml (96 units)
Best Time to Inject
Inject semaglutide on the same day each week, at approximately the same time. Many prefer to inject in the evening so that any potential nausea occurs during sleep.
Tips for Injection Timing:
- Choose a day you will remember (e.g., Sunday evening)
- Set a reminder on your phone
- Inject 1-2 hours before bedtime
- Avoid injecting immediately after a large meal
Injection Sites
Semaglutide is injected subcutaneously (under the skin). Recommended sites:
- Abdomen - At least 5cm from the navel
- Thigh - Front of the thigh
- Upper Arm - Back of the upper arm
Rotate between different sites to avoid irritation.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss your regular injection day:
- Within 5 days: Take the dose as soon as you remember, then continue on your regular day
- More than 5 days: Skip the missed dose and take the next dose on your regular day
Never double the dose to compensate!
Common Side Effects by Dose Level
At 0.25-0.5mg:
- Mild nausea
- Decreased appetite
- Light constipation
At 1.0-2.4mg:
- More pronounced nausea (often subsides)
- Diarrhea
- Bloating
- Fatigue
Most side effects are worst at the beginning and decrease after 2-4 weeks on the same dose.
When NOT to Increase the Dose?
- If you have severe side effects on the current dose
- If weight loss is already satisfactory
- If you experience severe nausea or vomiting
It is okay to stay on a lower dose longer if it works for you.
Summary
Successful use of semaglutide is about patience and gradual escalation. Always start at 0.25mg, increase every 4 weeks if you tolerate it well, and listen to your body. Always consult a doctor before starting treatment.