In recent months, an unconventional approach to using popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic has gained traction, sparking debates among health professionals and social media users alike. The practice, known as microdosing, involves taking extremely small doses of these medications, with the aim of avoiding the side effects associated with full doses while still reaping some of their weight-loss benefits.
What is Microdosing Ozempic?
Erica Liebman, a psychologist from Philadelphia, turned to microdosing Ozempic after hearing horror stories about the drug’s side effects, which include nausea, vomiting, and severe constipation. Instead of following the standard dosing regimen, which typically starts with a 0.25 milligram dose, Liebman experimented with a fraction of that amount, hoping to lose weight without the discomfort she had heard about.
She was introduced to microdosing by Tyna Moore, a health influencer who has promoted the practice not only for weight loss but for conditions such as high blood pressure, autoimmune diseases, and brain fog. Moore runs an online course called “Ozempic Done Right University,” where she advises hundreds of individuals on how to safely microdose Ozempic and similar drugs.
Does Microdosing Actually Work?
The question of whether microdosing is an effective strategy for weight loss remains largely unanswered. Dr. Daniel Drucker, a leading researcher at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto and a pioneer in the study of medications like Ozempic, acknowledges that these drugs are highly potent. It’s conceivable that even tiny doses could reduce hunger, but there is little scientific evidence to support the idea that substandard doses lead to significant weight loss.
Some proponents of microdosing claim that taking smaller doses helps them lose a few pounds and control their cravings. Others suggest that it allows them to maintain weight loss after initially using standard doses of the drug. However, most doctors, including Dr. Andrew Kraftson, a clinical associate professor at Michigan Medicine, caution that there is no medical guidance to support independent microdosing without professional oversight.
The Placebo Effect or a Genuine Solution?
For some users, the results may be less about the medication’s power and more about belief. Dr. Kraftson suggests that the placebo effect could explain the success some individuals report. If patients think that microdosing is helping them, they might be more motivated to make lifestyle changes, such as improving their diet or exercising more, which could lead to weight loss.
For example, Michael Hammer, 47, started microdosing Ozempic in 2022 after experiencing severe side effects from the standard dose. He had lost some weight initially but was plagued by nausea and a lack of appetite, making it difficult to eat. After switching to a microdose, he was able to exercise more and focus on healthier eating, ultimately shedding 50 pounds. While he still felt occasional queasiness, it was far less intense than before.
Potential Risks and Concerns
Although microdosing is unlikely to cause severe harm, Dr. Drucker notes that there are potential risks. Stretching out the dosing regimen could result in using medications past their expiration date or even lead to the unintentional misuse of drugs. There is also a growing concern among doctors about the increasing trend of patients turning to compounded medications, which are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). These unregulated versions of weight-loss drugs may allow for more flexibility in dosing, but they come with greater health risks.
For instance, Liebman uses a compounded version of tirzepatide (the active ingredient in the weight loss drug Zepbound), taking one-fifth of the recommended starting dose. She reports that this regimen has helped her lose a small amount of weight, particularly around her midsection, which had been resistant to dieting since her 40s. While she still experiences hunger, she finds it easier to stop eating after a modest meal and has noticed a reduction in her preoccupation with food. Even without further weight loss, she feels that the ability to control her appetite is a significant benefit.
A Growing Trend, But Little Evidence
Despite the rising popularity of microdosing in online communities, medical professionals are cautious about endorsing the practice. While the benefits some individuals experience may be real, there is a lack of research to confirm whether microdosing can produce sustainable or significant weight loss. Furthermore, without proper medical supervision, patients may be risking more than they realize by taking these medications in ways that are not recommended.
As the practice gains momentum, experts continue to stress the importance of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and tirzepatide under professional guidance. While microdosing may seem like a shortcut to weight loss without the unpleasant side effects, it remains unclear whether the practice is a safe or effective long-term solution.
Conclusion
While the appeal of microdosing weight loss drugs like Ozempic is undeniable, particularly for those seeking a way to avoid side effects, the medical community is still uncertain about its efficacy. For now, individuals interested in microdosing should approach it with caution and seek professional advice to ensure they are making informed and safe decisions regarding their health.
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