Glossary
Titration
Also called Dose titration, Dose escalation, Step-up dosing, Ramp-up
Starting at a low dose and raising it in steps over weeks, so the body adapts and side effects stay manageable.
In more detail
The approved GLP-1 drugs are titrated by label. Ozempic starts at 0.25 mg once a week for 4 weeks before stepping up. Zepbound starts at 2.5 mg once a week and steps up by 2.5 mg after at least 4 weeks on each dose. The opening dose is a starter step, not the dose the drug is meant to work at.
Community and guide protocols for research peptides often copy the same idea: begin low, hold, then step up if tolerated.
Why it matters
Most stomach side effects with GLP-1 drugs show up around dose increases, and titration is the main tool for keeping them tolerable. Each compound page lists its titration steps with origin labels.
Related terms
- Loading doseA higher dose at the start of a course to reach a working level faster, followed by a lower maintenance dose.
- GLP-1A gut hormone that boosts insulin after meals, slows stomach emptying and reduces appetite. GLP-1 receptor agonists such as semaglutide copy and extend its effect.
- MicrodosingTaking a much smaller dose than the standard one, often a fraction of a starter dose. Common in GLP-1 communities for side effects, cost or maintenance.
- CycleA set period of taking a compound, usually followed by a planned break. A protocol might say 8 to 12 weeks on, 4 weeks off.
Peptides where this comes up
Sources
Each source is labeled by where the information comes from. How we label sources
- RegulatoryOzempic (semaglutide) injection prescribing information(opens in a new tab)
FDA (Drugs@FDA) · checked
- RegulatoryZepbound (tirzepatide) injection prescribing information(opens in a new tab)
FDA (Drugs@FDA) · checked
Updated