Ozempic (semaglutide) titration schedule — straight from the FDA label
By The LeanGLP Team · Label information verified 2026-08-05
Ozempic is semaglutide, a once-weekly subcutaneous injection from Novo Nordisk. Type 2 diabetes (glycemic control, cardiovascular risk reduction, and chronic kidney disease-related indications) — per the prescribing information. Ozempic is not FDA-approved for weight loss, though prescribers may use clinical judgment.
Dose-escalation schedule (per the prescribing information)
| Period | Dose | Label note |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1-4 | 0.25 mg once weekly | Label: the 0.25 mg dosage is for treatment initiation and is not effective for glycemic control. |
| Week 5 onward | 0.5 mg once weekly | |
| If more glycemic control is needed (≥4 weeks per step) | Increase to 1 mg, then to 2 mg once weekly |
Maintenance dosing
Maintenance dosages: 0.5 mg, 1 mg, or 2 mg once weekly. Maximum: 2 mg once weekly.
Plain-language notes
- Ozempic and Wegovy are both semaglutide at different dose ranges with different approved indications — which is why their schedules differ.
- Administered once weekly, any time of day, with or without meals.
Why the slow ramp exists
Every GLP-1 label escalates gradually for the same stated reason: reducing gastrointestinal side effects while the body adapts. For nutrition planning, the escalation window is when appetite suppression tends to hit hardest — which is exactly when protein intake usually craters. That's the problem our GLP-1 protein calculator and week-one meal plan are built for.
Sources
Schedules can change when the FDA approves label revisions — the links above always point at the current official documents. If you spot a discrepancy, tell us and we'll correct it fast.
Frequently asked questions
Why does Ozempic start at 0.25 mg if it doesn't control blood sugar at that dose?
The label states 0.25 mg is for treatment initiation only — a 4-week on-ramp to reduce gastrointestinal side effects before stepping to the first therapeutic dose (0.5 mg).