GLP-1 Dose Titration Schedule Calculator

Dose titration (gradual escalation) dramatically reduces gastrointestinal side effects — primarily nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. By starting at a low dose and increasing every 4 weeks, your body adapts to the medication. Studies show titration reduces the dropout rate due to GI side effects by more than 50% compared to starting at the full maintenance dose.

For weekly injectables (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound): if it's been ≤5 days since the missed dose, take it as soon as you remember and resume your normal weekly schedule. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and continue on the regular schedule. Never take two doses within 2 days of each other. Consult your provider for personalized guidance.

Yes — if you are tolerating a dose well and achieving satisfactory weight loss, your provider may keep you at an intermediate dose rather than escalating to the maximum. The goal is the minimum effective dose that achieves your treatment goals with acceptable side effects. This is a clinical decision to make with your prescribing provider.

If you experience severe nausea, vomiting, or GI symptoms, do not advance to the next dose. Contact your provider — they may keep you at the current dose for longer, or temporarily reduce it. Do not stop the medication abruptly without consulting your prescriber. For severe abdominal pain, seek immediate medical attention (could indicate pancreatitis).

Weekly injectables can be injected on the same day each week, at any time of day, with or without food. Consistency is key — choose a day and time that fits your routine. Common injection sites are the abdomen, upper thigh, or upper arm. Rotate injection sites weekly to reduce local reactions.

Rybelsus must be taken on an empty stomach with up to 4 oz (120ml) of plain water only. Wait at least 30 minutes before eating, drinking anything else, or taking other oral medications. This specific timing is critical for absorption — food, other liquids, and other medications can dramatically reduce Rybelsus effectiveness.

Saxenda (liraglutide, daily injection) has a faster 5-week titration: Week 1: 0.6mg daily → Week 2: 1.2mg daily → Week 3: 1.8mg daily → Week 4: 2.4mg daily → Week 5+: 3mg daily (maintenance). Because it's a daily injection (vs weekly), some patients find the adjustment more manageable, but GI effects are still common during escalation.

"SC" means subcutaneous — injected under the skin (not into muscle or vein). "Weekly" means once every 7 days. Your medication comes in a pre-filled auto-injector pen that makes the injection process straightforward. Your prescriber or pharmacist will demonstrate the injection technique when you first receive your medication.