Dosing,
decoded.

Most GLP-1 medications are taken once a week, on the same day, at any time of day — with or without food. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can within 4–5 days; otherwise skip and take the next dose on your usual day.

Doses start low and step up roughly every 4 weeks to give your gut time to adjust. Escalating too fast is the most common reason people feel terrible.

The most common effects are digestive, and they usually peak during dose increases then settle.

• Nausea, vomiting, reflux
  Very common. Eat small, low-fat meals; stop when comfortably full.
• Bloating and fullness
  Small frequent meals beat big ones. Log portion size.
• Constipation or diarrhea
  Hydration and fiber timing matter; track water.
• Fatigue, headache
  Often improves with protein and fluid intake.
• Injection-site reactions
  Redness or itching; rotate sites each week.

Most side effects are manageable, but some need urgent attention. When in doubt, call.

• Severe, persistent abdominal pain (may radiate to your back) — possible pancreatitis
• Repeated vomiting that prevents keeping fluids down — risk of dehydration
• Signs of gallbladder problems: pain in the upper right abdomen, fever, yellowing skin or eyes
• Symptoms of low blood sugar if you also take diabetes medication: shaking, sweating, confusion
• A lump or swelling in your neck, hoarseness, trouble swallowing
• Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, swelling of face or throat, difficulty breathing — seek emergency care

• Nausea or diarrhea lasting more than a week
• Losing weight faster than about 1 kg per week
• Struggling to eat enough protein or stay hydrated
• You want to change your dose or dosing day