Semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist sold under brand names like Ozempic and Wegovy, is used to treat type 2 diabetes and aid in weight loss.
A common question that arises when people start using semaglutide pens is: “How many units is 1.7 mg of semaglutide?” This article breaks down the math behind that calculation and provides a helpful dosage chart.
We’ll also cover how to administer semaglutide properly, what side effects to watch out for, and some frequently asked questions. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of semaglutide dosages and how to use your pen effectively.
What is semaglutide?
Semaglutide is a medication that imitates the effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone that helps regulate your appetite and blood sugar levels. It also slows down how quickly food leaves your stomach and appears to boost fat metabolism.
You might recognize semaglutide under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy. Ozempic is mainly prescribed for people with type 2 diabetes, while Wegovy is specifically approved by the FDA to treat obesity.
It’s important to remember that treatment with semaglutide should always be monitored by a qualified healthcare provider.
How Semaglutide Helps with Weight Loss
Semaglutide helps people lose weight in a couple of ways. First, it reduces appetite and makes you feel full sooner. Second, it helps to regulate your blood sugar levels.
But semaglutide isn’t a magic bullet. You’ll get the best results if you combine it with changes to your lifestyle. Diet and exercise are crucial. Many doctors recommend a high-protein, low-carb diet.
How quickly will you lose weight? Some people report losing 2-5% of their body weight in the first month. After six months, some patients lose up to 20% of their weight.
Semaglutide Dosage Chart in Units
Semaglutide, sold under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy, is prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight loss. It’s administered via a subcutaneous injection, usually in the thigh, stomach, or upper arm.
If you’re taking semaglutide, it’s important to understand how many units are in each dose.
Understanding the dosage chart
When you start taking semaglutide, your doctor will likely prescribe a low dose to minimize any side effects. The dosage will then be increased gradually over a period of weeks.
It’s important that you stick to your doctor’s prescribed dosage and do not increase the dose without consulting with them first.
1.7 mg in units
A 1.7 mg dose of semaglutide is equivalent to 34 units. This dosage is usually prescribed around weeks 13 through 16 of treatment.
How to inject semaglutide
Semaglutide is delivered via a subcutaneous injection — meaning you inject it into the layer of fat under your skin. You’ll inject it once a week, on the same day each week. You can inject it any time of day, but try to be consistent.
Be sure to store your injectable pens according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually in the refrigerator.
If you miss a dose, contact your doctor for guidance. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed injection.
Who should NOT use semaglutide?
Semaglutide isn’t right for everyone. You should avoid it if you have:
- A history of medullary thyroid carcinoma (MTC) or multiple endocrine neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2)
- Severe gastrointestinal problems
- A history of pancreatitis or severe kidney disease
It is also not recommended for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Important: Talk to your doctor before using semaglutide if any of these apply to you. They can help you decide if it’s a safe and appropriate treatment option.
What are the side effects of semaglutide?
Like all medications, semaglutide can cause side effects. The most common ones include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain, and fatigue.
While most side effects are mild and temporary, some can be serious. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a severe allergic reaction or have difficulty breathing.
To minimize side effects, doctors usually start patients on a low dose of semaglutide and gradually increase it over time. This approach allows your body to adjust to the medication and reduces the likelihood of experiencing unpleasant symptoms.
Tips for maximizing semaglutide results
Semaglutide can be a useful tool. However, you’ll need to make other lifestyle changes to get the most out of it.
- Emphasize diet and exercise. Eat a high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet, and exercise for at least 150 minutes each week.
- Remember other lifestyle factors. Drink plenty of water, monitor your blood sugar if you have diabetes, and get enough sleep. Try to reduce the amount of stress in your life.
- Track your progress. Keep track of your weight, measurements, and blood sugar levels to stay motivated and make adjustments as needed.
What are some other weight loss medications?
Semaglutide is one of several medications approved to treat obesity. Some others include liraglutide, phentermine-topiramate, orlistat, and bupropion-naltrexone.
It’s important to note that semaglutide is approved by the FDA for chronic weight management, while some other medications may be used “off-label.” This means that doctors can legally prescribe them for weight loss, even if that isn’t the use the FDA originally approved them for.
Frequently Asked Questions about Semaglutide Dosage
- How do I convert milligrams (mg) to units for semaglutide?
- The conversion factor is 0.05 mg per unit. So, 1.7 mg of semaglutide equals 34 units.
- Can I increase my dose faster to lose weight quicker?
- No. It’s important to follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage schedule. Ramping up your dosage too quickly can cause unpleasant side effects and may not even improve how well the medication works for you.
- Does semaglutide work without dieting?
- Semaglutide can help with weight loss, but it works best when you combine it with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- What’s the maximum dose of semaglutide for weight loss?
- The maximum dose for Wegovy is 2.4 mg, which is 48 units. For Ozempic, the maximum dose is 2.0 mg.
- Can you take semaglutide long-term?
- Yes, but only under the supervision of your doctor.
To Conclude
To recap: If you’re using a semaglutide pen with a concentration of 0.5 mg/0.1 mL, then 1.7 mg of semaglutide equals 34 units on the pen.
It’s extremely important to be under the care of a healthcare provider when taking semaglutide. Always follow your doctor’s dosage instructions exactly. Don’t increase or decrease the amount of medication you’re taking unless your provider tells you to do so.
The information in this article is for educational purposes only. Talk with your healthcare provider for guidance on how to use semaglutide safely and effectively.