Wegovy 0.5mg: step-up dose explained
What the 0.5mg dose of Wegovy (semaglutide) is for, where it sits in the step-up schedule and what to discuss with your prescriber.
Where 0.5mg fits
- Step 10.25mgfrom week 1
- Step 20.5mgfrom week 5
- Step 31mgfrom week 9
- Step 41.7mgfrom week 13
- Step 52.4mgfrom week 17
- Step 67.2mgfrom week 21
The UK product information says to stay on each dose for at least 4 weeks before increasing. Weeks shown are the earliest possible; many people stay on a dose for longer, and some stay on a lower dose.
0.5mg is a step-up dose. People usually move through it on the way to a maintenance dose; the earliest it would normally start is week 5. Some people stay on a step-up dose for longer if side effects need time to settle.
Always use the dose your prescriber has prescribed and follow the Patient Information Leaflet. Do not change your dose yourself, and never use a pen or tablet strength that was not prescribed for you.
All Wegovy doses
| Dose | Role | Earliest start (if increased at every step) |
|---|---|---|
| Wegovy 0.25mg | Starting dose | Week 1 |
| Wegovy 0.5mg | Step-up dose | Week 5 |
| Wegovy 1mg | Step-up dose | Week 9 |
| Wegovy 1.7mg | Step-up dose | Week 13 |
| Wegovy 2.4mg | Maintenance dose | Week 17 |
| Wegovy 7.2mg | Maximum doseAuthorised by the MHRA in January 2026 for adults with obesity (BMI of 30 or more) only. Not covered by NICE TA875. | Week 21 |