Weight loss expectations by timeframe
First Month - Modest Start:
- In the first month, weight loss tends to be modest, as the starting dose of 0.25 mg once weekly is primarily meant to help your body adjust to the medication.
- Clinical Data:
In the STEP 1 clinical trial, participants lost an average of 2% of their starting weight in the first four weeks [1]. Other studies suggest that weight loss during this period can range from 2% to 5% of body weight [2].
Three to Six Months - Accelerated Progress
- As the dose is gradually increased to the therapeutic level of 2.4 mg once weekly, weight loss becomes more pronounced.
- Clinical Results:
By 12 weeks, average weight loss is around 10% of body weight, with **6% occurring at 12 weeks and 4% by 8 weeks [1]As your dose is increased to therapeutic levels (5 mg to 15 mg once weekly), weight loss tends to accelerate.
One Year or Longer - Long Term Results
- Over the course of 68 weeks (about 16 months), patients achieved an average total weight loss of 15% of their initial body weight, with some losing up to 20%. These results are based on adherence to both the medication and lifestyle modifications [1]
What influences weight loss speed?
1. Gradual Dose Escalation:
Wegovy’s dose starts low and increases over 16 weeks to minimise side effects. Weight loss tends to accelerate as you approach the maximum dose of 2.4 mg.
2. Lifestyle Factors:
Combining Wegovy with a reduced-calorie diet and regular physical activity enhances results. Patients who adopt healthy habits typically see faster and more significant weight loss.
3. Individual Variation:
Factors like age, starting weight, metabolic rate, and adherence to the regimen can affect how quickly you lose weight.
What is a healthy rate of weight loss?
The general recommendation for safe and sustainable weight loss is 0.45 to 0.9 kilograms per week, or 1% of body weight per week. Wegovy may slightly exceed this rate, especially after reaching the maintenance dose, but steady progress is key for long-term success.
Set realistic expectations
While it’s exciting to see progress on the scale, weight loss is not always linear. It’s normal to experience weeks with slower or faster weight loss. Focus on overall trends and other benefits, such as improved energy levels, reduced cravings, and better blood sugar control.
With Wegovy, weight loss is gradual but consistent, with the most significant results typically observed after reaching the maintenance dose.
Always work closely with your practitioner and medical team to monitor progress and adjust your weight loss treatment plan as needed.
Ready to start your weight loss journey?
Find out if you're eligible for a doctor-prescribed GLP-1 treatment like Wegovy through Moshy. Take our free online quiz to get started — it only takes a few minutes and could be your first step toward sustainable weight loss.