The question, 'What happens if I take 100 units of semaglutide?' points to a critical misunderstanding of how this medication is dosed, leading to a situation that constitutes a medical emergency. Semaglutide, the active ingredient in drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, is a powerful GLP-1 receptor agonist used for type 2 diabetes and weight management [1.4.2]. A massive overdose can have severe and prolonged consequences due to the drug's long half-life of about one week [1.2.1, 1.3.1].
Understanding Semaglutide and Its Correct Dosage
Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone that regulates appetite and insulin secretion [1.4.2]. This leads to slower stomach emptying, increased feelings of fullness, and better blood sugar control. However, its dosage is precise and measured in milligrams (mg), not the 'units' typically associated with insulin [1.5.1, 1.5.3].
Correct Dosing: Milligrams (mg), Not Units
A critical point of confusion is the use of the term 'units'. While some compounded semaglutide dosage charts show a conversion to units, FDA-approved products like Wegovy and Ozempic are prescribed and dosed in milligrams [1.5.6, 1.4.4].
- Starting Dose: Treatment typically begins at 0.25 mg once weekly for four weeks to allow the body to acclimate [1.4.1, 1.4.5].
- Titration: The dose is gradually increased every four weeks, moving to 0.5 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.7 mg, and finally to a maximum maintenance dose of 2.4 mg for weight management [1.4.4].
The term '100 units' is dangerously ambiguous. For some compounded versions, 100 units could equate to 5 mg of the drug—more than double the maximum approved weekly dose [1.5.7]. For others, it could mean administering an entire pen, a massive overdose leading to hospitalization [1.7.7].
The Immediate Dangers of a Massive Overdose
Taking an amount equivalent to '100 units' would overwhelm the body's systems, leading to severe and potentially life-threatening effects.
Main Risks of Overdose
- Severe Hypoglycemia: The most dangerous immediate risk is a drastic drop in blood sugar (hypoglycemia) [1.2.1, 1.2.5]. Symptoms include dizziness, confusion, sweating, shakiness, and in severe cases, seizures or coma [1.2.7, 1.6.4].
- Extreme Gastrointestinal Distress: An overdose will amplify the common side effects of semaglutide to an extreme degree. This includes severe and persistent nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea [1.2.1].
- Dehydration and Kidney Injury: The severe vomiting and diarrhea can lead to significant dehydration, which in turn can cause acute kidney failure [1.6.6, 1.3.7].
- Acute Pancreatitis: Semaglutide carries a risk of pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas), and an overdose could increase this risk. This condition causes severe abdominal pain and requires hospitalization [1.6.7, 1.2.7].
Standard Side Effects vs. Overdose Symptoms: A Comparison
It's vital to distinguish between manageable side effects and the signs of a dangerous overdose.
| Side Effect (Normal Dose) | Overdose Symptom (Extreme Dose) |
|---|---|
| Mild to moderate nausea [1.4.2] | Severe, persistent vomiting [1.2.1] |
| Occasional diarrhea or constipation [1.4.2] | Uncontrollable diarrhea leading to dehydration [1.6.6] |
| Feeling of fullness | Extreme abdominal pain, potential intestinal blockage [1.6.7] |
| Headache, fatigue [1.2.6] | Dizziness, fainting, confusion, seizures (from hypoglycemia) [1.2.1, 1.2.7] |
What to Do Immediately After a Semaglutide Overdose
If you believe you have taken a significant overdose of semaglutide, you must act immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear.
- Call Poison Control: The first and most critical step is to call the national Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222 in the United States [1.3.1, 1.3.3]. They will provide expert guidance on what to do next.
- Seek Emergency Medical Care: Go to the nearest emergency room for evaluation and treatment, especially if significant symptoms develop [1.3.5]. Due to semaglutide's week-long half-life, a prolonged period of observation and treatment may be necessary [1.2.1].
- Have Information Ready: Be prepared to tell medical professionals the exact amount you took (if known), the concentration of the product, and when you took it.
Medical treatment typically involves supportive care, such as intravenous (IV) fluids to combat dehydration and medications to control nausea. Blood glucose levels will be closely monitored, and glucose may be administered if hypoglycemia occurs [1.3.4, 1.3.1].
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety Above All
Taking '100 units' of semaglutide is a profound medication error that can lead to severe health consequences, including hospitalization and life-threatening complications like severe hypoglycemia and dehydration [1.2.1, 1.6.6]. The confusion between 'units' and 'milligrams' highlights the dangers, particularly with unregulated compounded versions of the drug [1.2.1]. Always follow the precise dosing instructions from your healthcare provider, use the medication as prescribed, and never alter your dose independently. If an overdose is suspected, immediate action by contacting Poison Control is essential.
