GLP-1 Agonist Dosage Chart: Complete Comparison Guide
Confused about GLP-1 dosing? I've created a complete dosage chart comparing all major GLP-1 agonists—Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound, Saxenda, and Victoza. Here's everything you need to know about titration schedules, which dose is right for you, and how to manage side effects during increases.
Quick Answer
All GLP-1 agonists follow a gradual titration schedule to minimize side effects. Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy) starts at 0.25mg weekly and increases every 4 weeks up to 2.4mg. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound) starts at 2.5mg weekly and increases to 15mg. Liraglutide (Saxenda/Victoza) is a daily injection starting at 0.6mg and increasing to 3mg. The key is going slow—don't rush dose increases.
I started semaglutide at 0.25mg and I'm currently at 1mg after 10 weeks. The slow titration helped me avoid severe nausea.
Complete GLP-1 Agonist Comparison Chart
Here's a comprehensive comparison of all major GLP-1 medications available in 2026:
| Medication | Active Ingredient | Indication | Frequency | Starting Dose | Max Dose |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wegovy | Semaglutide | Weight Loss | Weekly | 0.25mg | 2.4mg |
| Ozempic | Semaglutide | Type 2 Diabetes | Weekly | 0.25mg | 2mg |
| Zepbound | Tirzepatide | Weight Loss | Weekly | 2.5mg | 15mg |
| Mounjaro | Tirzepatide | Type 2 Diabetes | Weekly | 2.5mg | 15mg |
| Saxenda | Liraglutide | Weight Loss | Daily | 0.6mg | 3mg |
| Victoza | Liraglutide | Type 2 Diabetes | Daily | 0.6mg | 1.8mg |
Key Insight: Wegovy and Ozempic are the same medication (semaglutide) at different max doses. Zepbound and Mounjaro are the same medication (tirzepatide) with identical dosing. The difference is FDA indication—one is approved for weight loss, the other for type 2 diabetes.
Compounded versions follow the same protocols as brand-name versions at a fraction of the cost.
Semaglutide Dosage Chart (Ozempic/Wegovy)
Semaglutide is administered as a once-weekly subcutaneous injection. The titration schedule is designed to minimize gastrointestinal side effects while achieving therapeutic levels.
Standard Semaglutide Titration Schedule
This is a sub-therapeutic dose designed to help your body adjust. Don't expect major appetite suppression or weight loss yet—this is the "get used to it" phase.
Many people start noticing appetite suppression at this dose. You may experience mild nausea, especially in the first week after increasing. This is normal and typically subsides.
This is where most people see significant appetite suppression and steady weight loss. Many stay at this dose long-term if it's working well with manageable side effects.
If weight loss plateaus at 1mg and you're tolerating it well, your doctor may increase to 1.7mg. Not everyone needs this dose.
The maximum maintenance dose. Ozempic caps at 2mg (for diabetes), while Wegovy goes to 2.4mg (for weight loss). Only increase if needed and tolerated.
My Personal Experience with Semaglutide Titration
I started semaglutide at 0.25mg and honestly didn't feel much the first month—that's completely normal. When I increased to 0.5mg in week 5, I had mild nausea for about 3 days, then it passed. By week 6, my appetite was noticeably suppressed.
I increased to 1mg at week 9, and this is where I really hit my stride. My weight loss accelerated, food noise quieted down significantly, and side effects were manageable. I'm currently staying at 1mg because it's working well—there's no need to increase just because higher doses exist.
Key lesson: Don't rush the titration. Your doctor's protocol exists for a reason. Going too fast = worse side effects and higher chance of quitting.
When to Stay at Your Current Dose
You don't need to keep increasing just because the schedule says so. Stay at your current dose if:
- You're losing weight consistently (0.5-2 lbs per week)
- Your appetite is well-controlled
- Side effects are minimal or well-managed
- You're hitting your health and weight loss goals
More medication doesn't always equal better results. Find your effective dose and stay there.
Tirzepatide Dosage Chart (Mounjaro/Zepbound)
Tirzepatide is a dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist (more powerful than semaglutide alone) administered once weekly. It has a similar titration approach but starts at a higher dose.
Standard Tirzepatide Titration Schedule
Initial dose to allow your body to adjust. Many people notice appetite suppression even at this starting level, as tirzepatide is quite potent.
This is the first maintenance dose where most people see significant weight loss and appetite control. Many stay at 5mg long-term with excellent results.
Increase if weight loss plateaus at 5mg. This dose provides enhanced appetite suppression and metabolic benefits.
Many clinical trial participants achieved maximum weight loss at this dose. Good balance of efficacy and tolerability.
Optional step for those who need additional weight loss beyond 10mg. Not everyone requires this dose.
Maximum FDA-approved dose. Clinical trials showed average weight loss of 20-22% at this level. Only increase if lower doses aren't achieving goals.
Tirzepatide vs Semaglutide: Key Differences
Tirzepatide Advantages:
- Dual receptor action (GIP + GLP-1)
- Greater average weight loss (20-22% vs 15%)
- Better blood sugar control
- May have additional metabolic benefits
Semaglutide Advantages:
- Longer track record (more data)
- Lower cost (especially compounded)
- May have fewer GI side effects for some
- Simpler dosing schedule (fewer steps)
Liraglutide Dosage Chart (Saxenda/Victoza)
Liraglutide is an older GLP-1 agonist that requires daily injections (not weekly). It's less commonly prescribed now due to the inconvenience of daily dosing and lower efficacy compared to semaglutide and tirzepatide.
Standard Liraglutide Titration Schedule
Starting dose, injected once daily at the same time each day.
First increase after one week at starting dose.
Continue increasing weekly if tolerated.
Penultimate dose before reaching maximum.
Maximum maintenance dose for weight loss (Saxenda). Victoza for diabetes caps at 1.8mg daily.
Why Most People Choose Weekly Over Daily GLP-1s
- Convenience: One injection per week vs 365 per year
- Better results: Semaglutide and tirzepatide show superior weight loss
- Lower cost: Weekly medications are often cheaper even at retail prices
- Better compliance: Easier to remember and stick with weekly dosing
- Fewer injections: Less skin irritation and injection site issues
Unless you have a specific reason to use liraglutide, semaglutide or tirzepatide are better options.
When to Increase vs Stay at Current Dose
One of the most common questions I get: "Should I increase my dose?" Here's a practical decision framework:
STAY at Current Dose If:
- You're losing 0.5-2 lbs per week consistently
- Your appetite is well-controlled
- You feel satisfied after normal portions
- Food noise/cravings are minimal
- Side effects are manageable
- You're hitting your health goals
- Energy levels are good
- You're making sustainable lifestyle changes
Bottom line: If it's working, don't fix it.
INCREASE Dose If:
- Weight loss has plateaued for 4+ weeks
- Appetite suppression is wearing off
- Food cravings are returning
- You're tolerating current dose well (minimal side effects)
- You haven't reached your goal weight
- Your doctor recommends increasing
- You're at least 4 weeks into current dose
Important: Only increase if you're tolerating the current dose well.
My Perspective on Dose Increases
I'm currently at 1mg semaglutide and have been for 8 weeks. My weight loss is steady (about 1.5 lbs per week), my appetite is controlled, and I'm not experiencing significant side effects. Even though the "schedule" says I could increase to 1.7mg, I'm staying at 1mg because it's working perfectly for me. There's no medal for getting to the highest dose faster—the goal is sustainable, healthy weight loss with minimal side effects. Find your sweet spot and stay there.
Managing Side Effects During Titration
Side effects are most common when starting GLP-1s or increasing doses. Here's how to manage them:
Nausea (Most Common)
What to do:
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals (5-6 small meals instead of 3 large)
- Avoid greasy, fatty, or spicy foods
- Stay hydrated—sip water throughout the day
- Don't lie down immediately after eating
- Try ginger tea, peppermint, or B6 supplements
- Eat bland foods (crackers, toast, rice, bananas)
- Ask your doctor about anti-nausea medication (Zofran) if severe
When it improves: Usually subsides within 3-7 days after dose increase
Constipation
What to do:
- Drink at least 64-80 oz water daily
- Increase fiber gradually (aim for 25-30g daily)
- Take magnesium citrate supplement (300-400mg)
- Stay active—walking stimulates digestion
- Consider a stool softener (Colace) or gentle laxative (MiraLAX)
- Eat prunes, chia seeds, or flaxseed
Fatigue & Low Energy
What to do:
- Ensure you're eating enough protein (0.8-1g per lb body weight)
- Don't under-eat—track calories to ensure adequate intake
- Stay hydrated and maintain electrolytes
- Prioritize sleep (7-9 hours nightly)
- Consider B-complex vitamins or iron if deficient
- Give your body time to adjust (usually improves after 2-3 weeks)
Heartburn or Acid Reflux
What to do:
- Avoid trigger foods (caffeine, alcohol, chocolate, tomatoes, citrus)
- Don't eat within 3 hours of bedtime
- Eat slowly and chew thoroughly
- Elevate your head while sleeping
- Try over-the-counter antacids (Tums, Pepcid)
- Consider a PPI if severe (discuss with doctor)
When to Contact Your Doctor:
- Severe, persistent nausea or vomiting preventing hydration
- Severe abdominal pain (could indicate pancreatitis)
- Vision changes
- Signs of allergic reaction (rash, swelling, difficulty breathing)
- Rapid heartbeat or chest pain
- Severe constipation lasting more than 5 days
- Symptoms of gallstones (right upper abdominal pain)
Cost Comparison at Different Dose Levels
Here's what you'll actually pay for GLP-1 medications at various doses (brand-name vs compounded):
| Medication & Dose | Brand (No Insurance) | Compounded (Coreage Rx) | Monthly Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Semaglutide (all doses) | $935-$1,349 | $99 | $836-$1,250 |
| Tirzepatide (all doses) | $1,023-$1,349 | $249 | $774-$1,100 |
| Liraglutide (Saxenda) | $1,349 | Not commonly available | — |
The Compounding Advantage
One major advantage of compounded medications: the price doesn't change as you increase doses. Whether you're at 0.25mg or 2.4mg semaglutide, you pay the same $99/month. With brand-name medications, higher doses sometimes mean higher costs depending on your insurance.
Over a typical 12-18 month treatment period, you'll save $10,000-$15,000 by using compounded semaglutide instead of brand-name Wegovy.
Which GLP-1 Medication Is Right for You?
Choosing between GLP-1 options depends on your goals, budget, and preferences:
Best for Most People: Semaglutide (Ozempic/Wegovy)
Semaglutide has the longest track record, proven 15% average weight loss, and is the most affordable option when compounded. It's effective, well-studied, and has a straightforward titration schedule.
Choose if: You want proven results, affordability, and weekly dosing convenience.
Best for Maximum Weight Loss: Tirzepatide (Mounjaro/Zepbound)
Tirzepatide shows superior weight loss results (20-22% average) due to its dual receptor action. It's more expensive but offers the highest efficacy currently available.
Choose if: You want the most powerful weight loss medication and can afford $249/month (compounded).
Best for Type 2 Diabetes: Either Semaglutide or Tirzepatide
Both medications excel at improving blood sugar control. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) has a slight edge for A1C reduction, but semaglutide (Ozempic) is also highly effective.
Choose if: You need both weight loss and blood sugar management.
Not Recommended: Liraglutide (Saxenda/Victoza)
Daily injections are inconvenient, results are inferior to weekly options, and it's more expensive. The only reason to use liraglutide is if you have a specific contraindication to semaglutide or tirzepatide.
Skip unless: Your doctor specifically recommends it for a particular reason.
Get Affordable Compounded GLP-1 Medications
If you're ready to start GLP-1 treatment but don't want to pay $1,000+ per month, I use compounded medications from Coreage Rx. They offer physician-supervised semaglutide at $99/month and tirzepatide at $249/month—the same medications from an FDA-registered 503B pharmacy.
Why I Chose Coreage Rx
- $99/month semaglutide: Same medication as Ozempic/Wegovy at all dose levels
- $249/month tirzepatide: Same medication as Mounjaro/Zepbound, all doses
- 503B FDA-registered pharmacy: Highest quality compounding standards
- Physician supervised: Board-certified doctors manage your titration schedule
- Dosing support: Medical team helps you navigate increases and side effects
- Same price all doses: No increase in cost as you titrate up
- Free shipping: Delivered monthly to your door
The compounded medications follow the exact same titration protocols as brand-name versions. You're getting the same results at a fraction of the cost. Read my full Coreage Rx review.
Ready to Start GLP-1 Treatment?
Get physician-supervised compounded semaglutide at $99/month or tirzepatide at $249/month. Same medications, same results, just without the brand-name markup.
$99/month semaglutide • $249/month tirzepatide • Medical guidance on dosing • Free shipping
Final Thoughts on GLP-1 Dosing
Understanding GLP-1 dosing schedules is crucial for successful treatment. The key takeaways:
- Go slow: Titration schedules exist to minimize side effects. Don't rush.
- Stay at what works: You don't need to reach the maximum dose. Find your effective dose and maintain it.
- Manage side effects proactively: Most side effects are temporary and manageable with simple strategies.
- Weekly beats daily: Semaglutide and tirzepatide are superior to liraglutide for convenience and results.
- Compounded saves thousands: Same medications at 90%+ lower cost through legitimate compounding pharmacies.
- Work with your doctor: Your physician should guide dose adjustments based on your individual response.
My personal journey with semaglutide has taught me that patience pays off. I started at 0.25mg, worked up to 1mg over 10 weeks, and I'm staying here because it's working beautifully. I'm not in a race to reach 2.4mg—I'm focused on sustainable, healthy weight loss with minimal disruption to my life.
Whether you choose semaglutide or tirzepatide, brand-name or compounded, the most important thing is finding a sustainable approach that works for your body, your budget, and your lifestyle. The dosage chart is a guide, not a rule. Listen to your body, work closely with your healthcare provider, and remember that the best dose is the one that helps you achieve your goals with the fewest side effects.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links to Coreage Rx. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our work providing free content. Read our full affiliate disclosure.
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. GLP-1 medications should only be used under physician supervision. Never adjust your dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. Read our full medical disclaimer.