What is the FDA's stance on microdosing GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic?

The FDA has not approved microdosing of GLP-1 drugs, and warns against compounded versions due to associated health risks.

Why are people microdosing GLP-1 medications?

People microdose GLP-1s primarily to reduce medication costs and minimize common side effects, despite a lack of supporting evidence.

Can microdosing GLP-1s lead to weight loss safely?

While some report anecdotal weight loss, there is no scientific evidence to support the safety or effectiveness of microdosing GLP-1s.

Home / Health / Doctors Weigh In on GLP-1 Microdosing Trend

Doctors Weigh In on GLP-1 Microdosing Trend

23 Nov

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Summary

Microdosing GLP-1s lacks FDA-approved evidence for safety and efficacy.
Cost reduction and fewer side effects are primary motivators for microdosing.
Compounded GLP-1 medications are linked to hospitalizations, FDA warns.

Doctors Weigh In on GLP-1 Microdosing Trend

An increasing number of individuals are exploring 'microdosing' GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, for weight management, driven by desires for reduced costs and fewer side effects. This practice deviates from FDA-approved dosing regimens, and medical experts emphasize the absence of clinical trial data to support its safety or effectiveness. Anecdotal reports of weight loss exist, but these do not equate to a recommended medical strategy.

Experts explain that 'microdosing' can involve obtaining non-standard doses from international sources or compounding pharmacies, a practice the FDA explicitly warns against due to links with hospitalizations. Alternatively, it may mean staying on the lowest FDA-approved dose without escalating as intended for weight loss or maintenance, contrary to established protocols for managing chronic conditions like obesity.