Wegovy: How and why to increase the dose
All weight loss medications require people to go through a dose escalation phase, also called "dose titration". This article why this is required and how to take GLP-1 medications safely and effectively.
Why does the dose increase?
GLP-1 medications, such as Wegovy and Saxenda, make significant changes to the body’s metabolism and we all respond at different rates to the medication, partly depending on our BMI. However, the “dose escalation” phase has been designed (and tested) to ensure that your body gets used to each dose before the increase.
Every month, for the first five months, you should increase your dose of Wegovy. Your CheqUp Weight Loss Coach will guide you through the process of dose escalation and advise if there is any reason why our doctors think you should remain on an existing dose for another week or so. This could be because your weight loss is significant and there is no need to increase the dose or because you’re experiencing side effects.
How to change the dose?
Changing the dose is easy - simply turn the counter on the end of your pen to the required dose, inject the needle into your stomach, wait until the pen has injected the whole dose, count to six and withdraw the needle.
Please watch our video here to show how it is done.
Watch out for side effects
There are a number of common side-effects of Wegovy, which people tend to experience during the dose escalation phase. These include nausea, vomiting, constipation and diarrhoea. The best way to deal with these side-effects is to stay hydrated, avoid large fatty meals and drink alcohol in small quantities.
What happens if you miss a dose?
If you miss your weekly dose of Wegovy, please take it again as soon as you remember. Preferably the following day. Do not take an extra dose of Wegovy or increase your dose on the following day to make up for your missed dose. If you miss your dose of Wegovy for 3 days or more, please contact us and we’ll discuss how to restart your treatment.
Published: 10 April 2023