What is Semaglutide and How Does It Work?
Semaglutide is a revolutionary GLP-1 (Glucagon-Like Peptide-1) receptor agonist. Originally approved for Type 2 Diabetes under the brand name **Ozempic**, its powerful metabolic and appetite-suppressing effects led to FDA approval under the brand name **Wegovy** for chronic weight management.
Semaglutide mimics an intestinal hormone released after eating. It targets receptors in the brain to reduce hunger, prolongs satiety by slowing stomach emptying (gastric delay), and improves insulin sensitivity in response to food intake.
The Official Semaglutide Titration Schedule
To minimize gastrointestinal side effects (such as mild nausea or acid reflux), Semaglutide is strictly administered on a **step-wise, 4-week titration schedule**. Standard medical protocols recommend starting with a low micro-dose and gradually stepping up every 4 weeks until reaching the maintenance dose:
| Phase | Timeline | Weekly Dose | Purpose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Step 1 | Weeks 1 - 4 | 0.25 mg | Body introduction & adaptation |
| Step 2 | Weeks 5 - 8 | 0.50 mg | Mild appetite suppression |
| Step 3 | Weeks 9 - 12 | 1.00 mg | Primary therapeutic dosage |
| Step 4 | Weeks 13 - 16 | 1.70 mg | High-tier metabolic correction |
| Step 5 | Month 5+ (Onward) | 2.40 mg | Full clinical weight maintenance |
Compounding & Reconstitution Guidelines
Lyophilized peptide vials require adding **Bacteriostatic Water** (sterile water containing 0.9% benzyl alcohol as a preservative) to dissolve the active powder before administration. Since standard compounding options vary (e.g., 2mg or 5mg vials), performing the dilution math is critical to avoid dosage errors.