_edited_edited.png)
Although Ozempic and Wegovy both contain the active ingredient Semaglutide, they are intended for different purposes and so have different dosages to reflect this. Ozempic was trialled as a treatment for type 2 diabetes, although weight loss is a side effect of the drug, and Ozempic is designed for weight management for the clinically obese. As a result, Wegovy is supplied in higher doses than Ozempic.
Injectable pens
Both Ozempic and Wegovy are prescribed as injectable pens, that you self administer once a week. Doses are increased gradually over time which allows your body to get used to the medication and serves to lessen side effects.
The dosage is clearly marked on the pens which are also colour coded for ease and safety. Before you begin taking your weight loss medication, you will agree an injection site with your clinician, which needs to be rotated so that you are not always injecting in exactly the same spot each time.
Dosage for Ozempic
Ozempic starts at a dosage of 0.25mg for at least 4 weeks, rising to 0.5mg for the next 4 weeks or longer, depending on your agreed dosage. A higher dose of 1mg is available if further blood sugar control is needed.
Dosage for Wegovy
Each pack of Wegovy pens that you receive holds a new dosage and the colour of the pen is different to reflect this. Dosage increases on a monthly basis as follows:
Month 1: 0.25mg (green)
Month 2: 0.5mg (pink)
Month 3: 1.0mg (brown)
Month 4: 1.7mg (blue)
Month 5 and onwards: 2.4mg (black)
How long to take Ozempic and Wegovy for
Through our programs you will receive ongoing monitoring and support, with a review after 6 months. It’s likely that you will continue to take Ozempic or Wegovy until you have lost at least 5% of your total body weight. It’s safe to take Semaglutide continually for up to 2 years. Talk to our weight loss specialists about the support we offer to continue your weight loss habits during and after you stop taking medication.
Find out which is right for you
We understand that everyone’s weight loss journey is different and what works for one person, may not be right for another. Therefore, our team prescribes weight loss drugs as a holistic program looking at individual symptoms, BMI, and other health conditions, as well as your lifestyle and diet. With the combined input of our weight loss nurses, nutritionists and dieticians, consultants and psychotherapists, we create tailored support to use alongside the medication that’s best for you, to give you the best chance of losing weight, and maintaining it.