GLP-1 doses start low and increase gradually, usually every four weeks, so your body can adjust and side effects stay manageable. You only move up if you are handling your current dose well, and your clinician may keep you at a dose that is working. At CMWL, your price is the same at every dose.
- One injection a week, on the same day each week.
- Doses typically step up every 4 weeks.
- Not everyone needs the highest dose to get results.
- Your CMWL price never changes with your dose.
Why do doses start low?
Starting low gives your stomach and appetite signals time to adjust. Jumping straight to a high dose makes nausea and other side effects much more likely. A slow climb is easier on your body and helps you stay on treatment.
What does a typical schedule look like?
| Weeks | Semaglutide (weekly) | Tirzepatide (weekly) |
|---|---|---|
| 1-4 | 0.25 mg | 2.5 mg |
| 5-8 | 0.5 mg | 5 mg |
| 9-12 | 1 mg | 7.5 mg |
| 13-16 | 1.7 mg | 10 mg |
| 17-20 | 2.4 mg | 12.5 mg |
| 21 and on | 2.4 mg (maintenance) | Up to 15 mg (maintenance) |
Example schedules based on brand-name prescribing information. Your clinician sets your actual dose and pace. Not everyone moves up every step.
What if I miss a dose?
Follow your care team’s instructions. Brand-name labels say to take a missed semaglutide dose if your next one is more than 2 days away, and a missed tirzepatide dose within 4 days. Otherwise, skip it and take the next dose on schedule. If you miss two weeks or more, check with your clinician before restarting, since you may need a lower dose.
Does the price change as my dose goes up?
No. CMWL charges one flat price at every dose, so moving up never raises your bill. Semaglutide starts at $74/mo and tirzepatide at $119/mo on the annual plan.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need the highest dose to lose weight?
No. Many people do well on a middle dose. Your clinician keeps you where you get results with side effects you can manage.
Can I go back down a dose?
Yes. If side effects are hard to manage, your clinician can step you back down.
What day should I take it?
Pick one day each week and keep it. You can change the day if needed, following your care team’s guidance.
How is my medication shipped?
Free, discreet shipping to your door with every plan.
Video transcript
The full transcript of the video above, published as text so you can skim, search and quote it.
Show transcript
[Paste the full edited transcript of this video from the CMS Transcript field. Add a timestamp at the start of each new topic so readers can jump to that point.]
Sources
- Wegovy (semaglutide) injection. Prescribing information. Novo Nordisk.
- Zepbound (tirzepatide) injection. Prescribing information. Eli Lilly and Company.
CMWL Chief Medical Officer and Yale-trained physician. Last reviewed October 14, 2026.
Read full bio →This article is for education only and does not replace personalized medical advice. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. Talk to a licensed clinician about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
