As reported by “News Medical,” in a review published in the journal “Cureus,” scientists discussed whether lower doses of GLP-1 group drugs could preserve at least part of their benefits while reducing treatment costs and the likelihood of adverse reactions. However, reliable clinical evidence is currently lacking.
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Benefits may extend beyond weight loss
GLP-1 group drugs, which include semaglutide and liraglutide, help regulate blood sugar levels, reduce appetite, and enhance the feeling of fullness. Tirzepatide works on a similar principle.
These drugs were primarily developed to treat type 2 diabetes, but some are also prescribed to people with obesity. Studies show that some drugs may not only help reduce weight but also lower the risk of severe cardiovascular complications. Their effects on the kidneys and other organs are also being studied.
It is precisely because of this broader benefit that the question arose: could a lower dose be used to maintain the achieved result?
What is microdosing?
In this case, microdosing refers to using a smaller dose of the drug than usually prescribed. It is hoped that such an amount could provide part of the treatment benefits but cause less nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, and other adverse reactions.
A lower dose could also reduce treatment costs. This is relevant for people who pay for the drugs themselves or consider stopping treatment due to the price.
However, there are currently no confirmed guidelines on what dose should be called a microdose, who it might suit, and how long it would be safe to use.
One patient’s results sparked interest but prove nothing
The review described the case of a 34-year-old woman with lipedema. After a month of treatment with a low dose of tirzepatide, positive changes in her condition were observed.
However, one person’s experience cannot prove that this method would work for others. It is unclear whether the result lasted longer, what influence other factors had, and whether such a dose would be safe for long-term use.
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Moreover, the researchers’ publication was descriptive, not a systematic review. This means it does not provide enough data to change treatment recommendations.
Dividing doses carries additional risks
Specialists are particularly concerned about self-dividing doses of injectable drugs. Not all drug syringes are designed for selecting non-standard amounts, so a person may inject too much or too little of the drug.
Trying to transfer, divide, or otherwise change the way the drug is used also carries the risk of contamination and loss of sterility. A smaller amount of the drug also does not guarantee that side effects will not occur.
GLP-1 group drugs are prescription medications, with doses selected based on a person’s health status, comorbidities, and other medications used. A smaller dose may be sufficient for one patient but ineffective for another.
An attractive idea that still lacks evidence
Scientists do not rule out that in the future, lower doses of GLP-1 drugs could be prescribed to certain patients, for example, to maintain the achieved result or reduce adverse effects.
However, microdosing is not currently an approved treatment strategy. To prove its effectiveness and safety, clinical trials comparing lower doses directly with standard ones would be needed.
Therefore, it is not recommended to independently reduce, divide, or otherwise change the prescribed drug dose.
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