GLP-1 medicines start at a low dose and step up gradually to limit side effects. Choose a medicine and your start date to see the standard schedule from the FDA label, with dates.
GLP-1 dosing schedule
See the standard step-up schedule from the FDA label, with dates based on your start date.
| Dose | Standard length | Earliest dates |
|---|
This shows the standard schedule only. Your prescriber may keep you on a dose longer, choose a lower maintenance dose, or adjust for side effects. Never change your dose without talking to them.
How this tool works
It applies the standard dose-escalation schedule from each prescribing information: the Wegovy pen increases every 4 weeks from 0.25 mg to 2.4 mg; the Wegovy pill increases every 30 days from 1.5 mg to 25 mg; Zepbound increases in 2.5 mg steps after at least 4 weeks on each dose. The dates shown are the earliest possible; your prescriber may move more slowly.
Common questions
How long does it take to reach the maintenance dose?
On the standard schedule, about 16 weeks for the Wegovy pen (2.4 mg from week 17), 90 days for the Wegovy pill (25 mg from day 91) and at least 4 weeks per step for Zepbound, depending on the maintenance dose chosen.
What if I cannot tolerate the next dose?
Prescribers often delay a dose increase or keep you on a lower maintenance dose. For the Wegovy pen, 1.7 mg is an approved maintenance dose if 2.4 mg is not tolerated.
Can I skip steps to lose weight faster?
No. Skipping steps increases the risk of nausea, vomiting and other side effects. Follow your prescriber’s schedule and read our side effects guide.
Sources
- Novo Nordisk. Wegovy US Prescribing Information. www.novo-pi.com
- Eli Lilly. Zepbound US Prescribing Information. pi.lilly.com
More free tools: see all GLP-1 tools. This tool provides general information, not medical advice.