In STEP-1, Wegovy (brand semaglutide) averaged about 2.0% body-weight loss by week 4, 6.5% by week 12 and about 14.9% by week 68 (Compounded versions were not in that trial, and the FDA does not review compounded drugs for potency, purity, or effectiveness — do not expect the same result.). The dose is raised in steps, so the effect builds over months; individual results vary widely.
The brand schedule it follows
- Week 1–4: 0.25 mg — Starting dose — body adjusts
- Week 5–8: 0.5 mg — Step up
- Week 9–12: 1.0 mg — Step up
- Week 13–16: 1.7 mg — Step up
- Week 17+: 2.4 mg — Maintenance (1.7 mg is also approved); adults may go to 7.2 mg
Expected weight-loss curve
Mean body-weight change across 68 weeks on Wegovy (brand semaglutide) from the STEP-1 trial. Curve smoothed from published endpoints; individual results vary significantly.
Trial participants also received lifestyle counseling. Real-world results depend on dose adherence, side-effect tolerance, and lifestyle factors.
When to reassess
The Compounded Semaglutide label sets no time point for judging whether it is working. Ask your prescriber when they plan to review your response, and do not change the dose on your own.
Why GLP-1 medicines work gradually, and what the first weeks usually feel like, is covered once for the whole class in how long GLP-1 medications take to work.
Common questions
How long does Compounded Semaglutide stay in the body?
Compounded Semaglutide has a half-life of about one week and is taken once weekly.
When should I talk to my prescriber if Compounded Semaglutide isn't working?
The Compounded Semaglutide label sets no time point for judging response. Ask your prescriber when they plan to review it, and do not change the dose on your own.