# How often do you take Ozempic (semaglutide)?

Ozempic® is an [injectable](https://www.formhealth.co/faqs/how-to-use-ozempic-pen) medication that is taken once weekly [at any time of the day](https://www.formhealth.co/faqs/when-to-take-ozempic) with or without food. Because [Ozempic has a long half-life](https://www.formhealth.co/faqs/how-long-does-ozempic-stay-in-your-system) (the time it takes for half of the drug to be processed by the body), it can be taken weekly rather than daily. The starting dose of Ozempic is 0.25 mg weekly, and every 4 weeks the dose may be increased, first to 0.5 mg weekly for 4 weeks, then 1 mg weekly for 4 weeks, and finally to a maximum dose of 2 mg weekly. The decision to increase the dose is typically based on how the patient is tolerating the medication and blood sugar control.

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### Lauren Lemieux, MD, FACP, DABOM

Dr. Lauren Lemieux completed her Internal Medicine residency and fellowship in Clinical Nutrition at UCLA. She is board certified in Internal Medicine and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, and as a Physician Nutrition Specialist. She is also a fellow of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Lemieux is passionate about helping her patients reach their health goals using personalized nutrition, lifestyle and weight management strategies.