If you’re considering or have recently started a GLP-1 medication, you might be wondering what to expect in terms of dosage and titration. At Thrive, most GLP-1 clients start on the lowest dose of medication to allow the body time to adjust and reduce the risk of potential side effects. While your dosage will always be tailored by a medical professional, it’s helpful to understand the typical progression.
Here’s a quick overview of how GLP-1 medications are typically introduced and how they’re adjusted over time to support both comfort and results.
Titration is the gradual adjustment of medication dosage to optimize its effects in order to limit potential side effects. With GLP-1 medications, starting at a lower dose and increasing gradually allows the body to adjust, reducing the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort and other side effects.
Each GLP-1 medication has its own titration schedule, but most follow a stepwise increase over several weeks. A typical titration schedule might look something like this:
Initial Dose: A low starting dose is used to allow the body to acclimate.
Gradual Increases: If tolerated, the dose is increased at intervals, often every 4 weeks, to achieve the desired therapeutic effect.
Maintenance Dose: Once an effective dose is reached, it may be maintained for long-term use, depending on individual response.
Starting with a low dose and increasing it slowly helps improve tolerability. Common side effects of GLP-1 medications, such as nausea, vomiting, and gastrointestinal discomfort, can often be mitigated by a gradual titration approach.
A medical professional will determine the best titration schedule based on factors such as:
Thrive clients will have the opportunity to provide feedback on progress, side effects and other concerns before their next prescription is sent to the pharmacy.
As your dosage increases, you may notice changes in how your body responds to the medication. Some people experience temporary side effects, while others adjust more quickly. Staying in communication with your healthcare provider can help ensure that any concerns are addressed and adjustments are made if needed.
GLP-1 medications can be a powerful tool in weight management and metabolic health, but proper titration is key to maximizing benefits while minimizing discomfort. If you have questions about your specific treatment, be sure to consult your healthcare provider.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.