Missed your GLP-1 injection? Don't panic. Here's exactly what to do depending on which medication you take and how long it's been since your missed dose.
The General Rule
For weekly injections (Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, Zepbound): Take the missed dose if it's within 5 days of when you were supposed to take it. If more than 5 days have passed, skip the missed dose and take your next scheduled dose on time.
Missed Dose Guidelines by Medication
Ozempic & Wegovy (Semaglutide Weekly)
Within 5 days of missed dose: Take it as soon as you remember, then resume your regular schedule.
More than 5 days: Skip the missed dose. Take your next dose on the regularly scheduled day.
Never: Take two doses at once or double up to make up for a missed dose.
Mounjaro & Zepbound (Tirzepatide Weekly)
Within 4 days of missed dose: Take it as soon as possible, then continue your regular schedule.
More than 4 days: Skip the missed dose and wait for your next scheduled injection day.
Rybelsus (Oral Semaglutide Daily)
Missed one day: Skip it and take your next dose the following morning as usual.
Important: Always take on an empty stomach with no more than 4 oz of plain water, then wait 30 minutes before eating.
What Happens If You Miss Multiple Doses?
Missing several doses can affect your treatment:
- 1-2 weeks missed: Usually can resume at your current dose
- 2+ weeks missed: May need to restart at a lower dose to minimize side effects
- Extended break: Contact your provider—you may need to re-titrate from the beginning
When to Contact Your Doctor
- You've missed more than 2 consecutive doses
- You're unsure whether to restart at full dose or lower
- You're experiencing increased side effects after resuming
- Your blood sugar becomes unstable (if diabetic)
- You need to stop medication temporarily for surgery or illness
Tips to Avoid Missing Doses
Set Reminders
Use phone alarms, calendar alerts, or medication reminder apps for the same day each week.
Pick a Consistent Day
Choose a day that's easy to remember—like every Sunday morning or every Friday evening.
Keep Medication Visible
Store your pen where you'll see it (in the fridge door, for example) as a visual reminder.
Track Your Doses
Use a simple log, app, or calendar to mark each dose. This helps you know if you've taken it.
Official Summary
Missing an occasional dose isn't a crisis. Take it when you remember if it's within the appropriate window, otherwise skip to your next scheduled dose. If you frequently forget, set up reminders. And if you've missed multiple doses, contact your healthcare provider before restarting to get personalized guidance.