20 Nov What to Expect When Starting Semaglutide Injections
Semaglutide has become one of the most widely used and clinically backed prescription treatments for medical weight loss. Originally developed for type 2 diabetes, it is now FDA-approved for weight management under the brand Wegovy when paired with lifestyle changes and medical supervision. If you’re preparing to begin treatment, knowing what to expect in the first weeks can help you feel confident, stay on track, and get the most out of your results.
This guide explains how Semaglutide works, what the first few weeks typically feel like, expected results, common side effects, and how programs from Concierge MD LA support your progress with doctor-supervised care.
Key Takeaways
- Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that reduces hunger, slows digestion, and improves blood sugar regulation.
- Most patients start with a low introductory dose (typically 0.25 mg) to minimize side effects.
- Appetite reduction usually begins within the first one to two weeks, with noticeable weight loss often appearing after three to eight weeks.
- Temporary digestive symptoms such as nausea, bloating, or mild fatigue are common early but tend to improve with time.
Medical supervision, healthy eating, hydration, and consistency support the best long-term results.
What Is Semaglutide and How Does It Work?
Semaglutide is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist, a class of medications originally used to help manage type 2 diabetes. GLP-1 is a natural hormone the body releases after eating, and Semaglutide works by mimicking its effects. According to the Cleveland Clinic, GLP-1 medications help lower blood sugar, reduce appetite, and improve metabolic function.
Semaglutide supports weight loss in three primary ways:
- Regulates appetite signals in the brain, helping you feel full sooner and stay satisfied longer
- Delays gastric emptying, so food stays in your stomach longer, which reduces hunger
- Improves insulin sensitivity, supporting healthy glucose levels after meals
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Semaglutide under the brand name Wegovy for chronic weight management in 2021.
Your First Week on Semaglutide
Most patients begin with a starting dose of 0.25 mg once weekly, either self-administered at home or guided by a medical provider. This is considered a “starter dose” and is not intended for immediate weight loss, but rather to help the body adjust before increasing to therapeutic levels.
Common experiences during Week 1
Many people notice:
- Decreased appetite
- Reduced interest in snacking
- Feeling full sooner when eating
- Mild digestive changes/nausea
- Fatigue
These changes are usually subtle but noticeable. Some individuals begin eating less automatically, even without trying.
In clinical trials, nausea was the most frequently reported side effect, especially during introductory dosing.
Tips to Make Week 1 Easier
- Eat smaller portions
- Avoid greasy or high-fat meals, which may worsen nausea
- Stay well hydrated
- Eat slowly
- Choose light, simple meals if your stomach feels sensitive
For most patients, these side effects improve as the body adjusts over one to three weeks.
How Results Progress Over the First Month
Your dosage is usually increased gradually every four weeks, assuming you tolerate the previous dose well. This approach is consistent with clinical guidelines and helps reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
Weeks 2–4: What Most People Notice
- Progressively reduced appetite
- Reduced cravings for “trigger foods”
- Eating smaller meals without effort
- Increased awareness of hunger—less emotional or habitual eating
- Calorie intake drops naturally because of appetite control
Early Results
Some patients begin seeing measurable weight loss by weeks 3–4, though results vary based on:
- Starting weight
- Calorie intake
- Activity level
- Metabolism
- Dosage
A large clinical study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that patients lost an average of ~6% of body weight by week 12 and ~15% by week 68 when combined with lifestyle changes.
By the end of the first month, most patients feel more stable, less hungry, and more in control of their eating habits.
Common Side Effects to Be Aware Of
Semaglutide is considered safe and well-tolerated for most patients, but some may experience temporary side effects, especially when doses increase. According to Healthline, side effects typically lessen over time as your body acclimates.
Common Side Effects
- Nausea
- Stomach discomfort
- Gas or bloating
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Acid reflux
- Fatigue
- Headache
Less Common but Serious Risks
Contact your provider immediately if you experience:
- Persistent vomiting
- Severe abdominal pain
- Signs of dehydration
- Major mood or vision changes
Medical monitoring ensures that dosing is adjusted safely as needed.
What Helps You Stay on Track
Consistency and lifestyle support significantly improve results. To set yourself up for success:
- Follow your weekly dosing schedule
- Eat nutrient-dense meals with adequate protein
- Stay hydrated
- Prioritize sleep
- Engage in light daily movement (walking, stretching, low-impact workouts)
- Track food or symptoms using an app or journal
And Most Importantly:
Stay in regular communication with your prescribing medical provider. Long-term success is much higher when you receive professional support and dose adjustments based on your body’s response.
When to Expect Noticeable Weight Loss on Semaglutide
While every patient is different, typical timelines include:
- Weeks 1–2: Appetite decreases; minimal immediate weight loss
- Weeks 3–4: Some individuals begin losing noticeable weight
- Weeks 6–12: Most patients see measurable and consistent body fat reduction
According to data compiled by Everyday Health, significant weight loss generally begins once therapeutic dosing is reached (often around 0.5–1 mg weekly and above).
Remember: Semaglutide is most effective when combined with a balanced diet and lifestyle guidance.
How Concierge MD LA Supports You on Semaglutide
A medical weight loss program greatly improves success by ensuring your treatment is structured, monitored, and customized.
With Concierge MD LA Semaglutide weight loss injections patients receive:
- Doctor-guided prescriptions based on your health profile
- Ongoing virtual check-ins and dose adjustments
- Optional bloodwork to monitor hormones, metabolic health, glucose, and nutrient levels
- Medication delivered directly to your home
- Personalized nutritional, fitness, and lifestyle support
- Dedicated follow-up to manage side effects and optimize results
Summary
Starting Semaglutide can be a powerful and clinically backed step toward sustainable weight loss. During the first weeks, you can expect:
- Reduced appetite
- Steady improvement in cravings
- Some temporary digestive effects that typically resolve
- Gradual progress as your dose increases
With consistent use, healthy eating, and expert medical guidance, many patients experience noticeable and lasting results beginning within the first month.
To begin medically supervised Semaglutide with at-home convenience and ongoing clinician support, explore Concierge MD LA’s weight loss program.
