The most prescribed GLP-1 for weight management. Calculate your dose, understand the titration schedule, and learn what to expect.
Pre-filled with typical semaglutide values. Adjust to match your vial and protocol.
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist originally developed by Novo Nordisk for type 2 diabetes (branded as Ozempic) and later approved for chronic weight management (branded as Wegovy). It works by mimicking the incretin hormone GLP-1, which stimulates insulin secretion, suppresses glucagon release, slows gastric emptying, and reduces appetite through central nervous system signaling.
Semaglutide is one of the most widely prescribed and clinically studied peptides for weight management, with robust phase 3 trial data showing significant and sustained weight reduction in participants across multiple studies. The compounded (research-grade) version requires reconstitution from lyophilized powder, unlike the pre-filled pen formulations of Ozempic and Wegovy.
Below are common dosing protocols for semaglutide based on available research and community experience:
| Protocol | Dose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Weeks 1-4 | 0.25 mg | Starting dose; allows GI adjustment |
| Weeks 5-8 | 0.5 mg | First dose escalation |
| Weeks 9-12 | 1.0 mg | Standard therapeutic dose |
| Weeks 13-16 | 1.7 mg | Second escalation (if tolerated) |
| Week 17+ | 2.4 mg | Maximum studied dose for weight management |
Ready to calculate? Use the calculator above or our full calculator with syringe visualization.
Semaglutide comes as a lyophilized (freeze-dried) powder that must be reconstituted with bacteriostatic water before use. The process is standard for all peptides:
For a detailed step-by-step guide with visuals, see our complete peptide reconstitution guide.
Understanding potential side effects helps you use semaglutide more safely. Most side effects are dose-dependent and may improve over time.
Before reconstitution: Store lyophilized (powder) semaglutide in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Refrigeration is ideal for long-term storage of unreconstituted peptides.
After reconstitution: Store the reconstituted vial upright in a refrigerator at 36-46°F (2-8°C). Do not freeze. The solution typically remains stable for 4-6 weeks. Always swab the vial stopper with an alcohol pad before each use.
These three peptides represent different generations of incretin-based therapies. Semaglutide targets one receptor (GLP-1), tirzepatide targets two (GLP-1 + GIP), and retatrutide targets three (GLP-1 + GIP + Glucagon). Each successive generation has shown greater efficacy in clinical trials, though semaglutide remains the most extensively studied with the longest real-world safety track record.
Your choice between them should consider availability, cost, side effect profile, and guidance from your healthcare provider. Use our tirzepatide calculator or retatrutide calculator for dosing those peptides.
Looking for a different peptide? Each calculator is pre-filled with standard dosing values.