How Long Does It Take for Wegovy to Work? A Week-by-Week Timeline

When you start any new weight loss treatment, it’s normal to wonder how quickly you’ll see results. If you’re considering Wegovy, or have just started it, you’re likely asking: how long does it take for Wegovy to work? At onlinemeds, we help patients across the UK access safe, regulated weight loss medication with clear, realistic guidance on what to expect.

Let’s walk through the week-by-week progression you might experience on Wegovy, including when side effects are most likely and when results start to show.

What Is Wegovy and How Does It Work?

Wegovy contains semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist. It mimics a hormone that helps regulate appetite and food intake. Unlike many weight loss medications that act as stimulants or fat blockers, Wegovy works by reducing hunger, increasing feelings of fullness, and helping to control blood sugar levels.

Wegovy is taken as a weekly injection, and the dose is increased gradually over several weeks to help your body adjust and minimise side effects.

Week 1–2: Getting Started on the Lowest Dose

Most patients start with 0.25mg once per week. At this stage, you’re unlikely to see major changes on the scale. This dose is not meant to trigger weight loss—it’s primarily designed to introduce the medication slowly to your system.

However, many people begin to notice reduced appetite or feel fuller after smaller meals. Some side effects may occur in this early stage, including:

• –> Mild nausea

• –> Bloating

• –> Fatigue

• –> Constipation or diarrhoea

These tend to be manageable and often settle after a few days.

Week 3–4: Early Signals of Appetite Suppression

As you remain on the initial dose or move up to 0.5mg, hunger levels may continue to drop. You might start eating smaller portions without trying, which can be surprising at first.

This is also when some people start seeing a small weight reduction, often due to decreased food intake. If side effects like nausea persist, speak with your prescriber. Staying hydrated and eating bland, smaller meals may help.

Week 5–8: Building Momentum

At this stage, your dose may be increased again to 1.0mg, depending on your progress and tolerability. For many, this is when weight loss becomes more noticeable.

You may also feel more in control around food and experience:

• –> Fewer cravings for snacks

• –> More consistent energy levels

• –> Some inches lost from the waist

Side effects often subside by this point, although some people still report nausea after their weekly injection. It typically improves as the body adjusts to the increased dose.

Week 9–12: Enhanced Results at Higher Doses

By now, many people are on 1.7mg or 2.4mg, which are considered the most effective therapeutic doses. This is when Wegovy tends to deliver its strongest impact on appetite and weight loss.

With continued calorie reduction and appetite control, weight loss may accelerate. However, results vary based on diet, physical activity, and individual response.

During this phase, it’s important to:

• –> Stay consistent with injections

• –> Maintain a balanced diet

• –> Continue light physical activity to support muscle retention

Side effects usually become less frequent. If they persist or worsen, consult your prescriber, who may adjust the dose accordingly.

Month 3 and Beyond: Sustained Progress

Studies show that patients who stay on Wegovy for several months experience significant reductions in body weight. Many see:

• –> A 5–10% body weight reduction after 3–6 months

• –> Improved confidence and relationship with food

• –> Ongoing reduced appetite and better blood sugar control

It’s important to understand that Wegovy is not a quick fix. It’s a tool to support sustainable weight loss, especially when paired with lifestyle changes like better nutrition, improved sleep, and regular movement.

What If You Don’t See Results Right Away?

Not everyone responds at the same pace. If you’re not seeing weight loss after 8–12 weeks on the higher dose, it doesn’t mean Wegovy isn’t working—it may take longer to show outward results. Some people experience internal improvements first, such as lower blood pressure or better blood sugar control.

Speak to your prescriber if you have concerns. They may review your lifestyle habits, check for other medications that affect weight, or explore alternative options.

Start Your Wegovy Journey with Confidence

If you’re wondering how long does it take for Wegovy to work, the answer depends on your body and your approach. At onlinemeds, we provide expert-guided online consultations to ensure you’re medically suitable and have the information you need to succeed.

Take the first step today and begin your weight loss journey with confidence—your transformation starts now.

Start Consultation