Changing weight loss drug dosage – what you need to know
Robert Price | Last update: 5th May 2025
Whether you’re taking Mounjaro or Wegovy, understanding how and when you should be changing dosage is key to staying on track with your weight loss journey. The right dose can boost results, reduce side effects, and support long-term success — but it needs to be done safely and with medical guidance.
Why dosage changes matter
Changing weight loss drug dosage is important because they are prescribed tailored to your individual body and goals. While initial doses are typically low to allow your body to adjust, gradual increases may be needed to maximise effectiveness. On the other hand, reducing your dose can help manage ongoing side effects or support long-term maintenance once your weight loss goals are achieved.
Remember: You should always speak to your doctor or healthcare provider before changing your weight loss drug dosage.
Signs it may be time to adjust your dosage
Recognising when to adjust your Mounjaro or Wegovy dosage is key to staying on track and feeling your best. Common signs include:
Slowed weight loss: If your progress has stalled despite sticking to your plan, a higher dose may help restart your weight loss journey.
For more insight have a look at See what’s holding you back or Managing weight loss plateaus.
Persistent side effects: Lingering nausea, tiredness, or other side effects could suggest your dose is too high for your system.
Read more about side effects in these SlimrChat articles GLP-1s – dos and don’ts.
- Reaching maintenance mode: Once you’ve hit your target weight, reducing your dosage can help maintain results while minimising unnecessary medication.
- Changes in lifestyle or health: Shifts in your activity levels, diet or overall health may require a dosage reassessment.
How to adjust safely
If it’s time to adjust your dosage, prioritise safety with these steps:
Follow medical advice: Never alter your dosage without consulting your doctor or healthcare provider. They’ll guide adjustments based on your progress, side effects, and goals.
Increase gradually: Doses are usually raised in small steps to reduce side effects. Be patient and give your body time to adapt.
Monitor your response: Track any changes in appetite, side effects, or weight loss after adjusting your dose.
Top Tip: Use a journal or app to log symptoms, side effects, and progress – this helps with your motivation and makes check-ins with your doctor more productive.
What to expect during adjustments
Weight loss drug dose changes, like any medication, can come with short-term side effects or shifts in how you feel. Common side effects include:
Nausea: Especially during dose increases. Eat smaller, more frequent meals and stay well hydrated.
Energy changes: You may feel more tired or, conversely, more energised as your body adjusts.
Weight changes: An increase in dosage can reignite weight loss, while reductions may help stabilise your results.
Top Tip: Schedule any planned adjustments for a weekend or quieter period so you can rest and keep track of your body’s response.
Long-term maintenance
Once you’ve met your weight loss goals, your focus will be on maintaining what you’ve achieved. This may include continuing Mounjaro or Wegovy at a lower dose to keep your appetite in check without overloading your system. You should:
Work with your doctor to see whether this if necessary for you and, if it is, find a suitable maintenance dose. The NHS have guidance on how long to take the medications.
Always try to support your results with balanced nutrition and regular physical activity.
Are you considering a GLP-1 dosage adjustment or have tips to share? Visit the SlimrChat community forums to exchange experiences and advice, or see what other people are saying.