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💉 Ozempic (semaglutide) started as a medical breakthrough for diabetes. Almost overnight, GLP-1s (Glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists) like Ozempic became the biggest weight loss drugs in the world.
From tennis pros to longevity seekers 🎾, GLP-1s are helping people tackle some of the most challenging health issues today (nearly half of US adults are expected to be obese by 2030).
But beyond standard weight loss, another movement is gaining traction.
Researchers, doctors, longevity-seekers, and even women with menopausal weight gain are beginning to microdose with GLP-1s. 🧬 They ask: by using less, what more this drug could be doing?
In smaller doses, GLP-1s may reduce inflammation 🔥 and risk of disease, and it could even support anti-aging biology. But with such little research on its effects, we’re still trying to unpack the mystery ourselves.
Poll
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What is ‘microdosing?’
Microdosing GLP-1s means taking less than manufacturer recommendations, or ‘going on and off low doses' at weekly or monthly intervals (semaglutide doses can go up to 2.4mg, so microdosing can start as low as 0.05mg.)
The goal is to “use the smallest amount you can to get to the results you desire,” says Kathleen Jordan, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Midi.
For many, “results” mean weight loss (and keeping the weight off) with fewer side effects, as 70% of people are found to quit GLP-1s within their first year due to nausea and vomiting. 🤢 Lower doses might improve tolerance and consistency, which can support better outcomes.
❓ Do you or someone you know use a GLP-1? Tell us about your experience at [email protected].
How do GLP-1s work?
GLP-1s reduce hunger by mimicking the effects of GLP-1 hormones that are produced in our guts, according to Harvard Health. Importantly, this hormone naturally regulates blood sugar and suppresses appetite.
GLP-1 drugs slow stomach emptying. This allows food to move from the stomach to the small intestine more slowly. 🥗
They block hormones (glucagons) that raise blood sugar and trigger insulin release, according to the Cleveland Clinic. 🩸
It also affects the nervous system, signaling for the brain to feel full and reduces cravings. 🧘
The GLP-1 equation for weight loss:
Slower digestion + appetite control + better pancreas function = weight loss
The Science behind the hype
Most people focus on weight loss, but the secondary and underlying benefits might open more doors for understanding how (and if) GLP-1s affect aging itself.
Inflammation: Scientists agree that inflammation drives aging and disease that shorten lifespan and health span. 🔥 GLP-1s reduce systemic inflammation and insulin resistance, “both linked to longevity,” says Dr. Jordan.
Bone & muscle: Some studies suggest that GLP-1s can protect bone density and delay musculoskeletal decline, which can slow the development of frailty and reduce falls.*
Neuroprotective: In a large study of patients with type 2 diabetes, semaglutide outperformed other diabetes medications in protecting the brain. Semaglutide (Ozempic) was linked with a 28% improvement in cognitive decline risk and a 48% lower risk of dementia. 🧠
Cellular function: GLP-1s appear to boost mitochondrial function, enhance cellular stress resistance, and allow our cells’ recycling system (autophagy) to clear away dead and damaged cells.
Metabolic support: GLP-1s can improve pancreatic function, curbing inflammation, and slow visceral fat accumulation, write the authors of a 2024 study. This means they could play a role in reducing the risk of metabolic diseases that contribute to cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Menopause: Hormonal shifts increase susceptibility to visceral fat accumulation, which shows up around the abdomen as “Meno-belly.” By reducing this age-related fat accumulation, GLP-1s may have a protective role for aging women.
Quiets food noise: Anecdotal claims suggest GLP-1s reduce “food noise,” or intrusive thoughts related to diet and food. This could be an effective avenue for treating addictive behaviors and overeating.
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The Wild West of access, and the potential downsides of microdosing GLP-1s
Millions can access the drugs through telehealth platforms and two-minute online quizzes. No appointment needed. The impact is more wide-ranging access to people who don’t meet strict clinical criteria.
For instance:
UCSF mentions a lean, size-4 New Yorker staff writer who describes her experience ordering a three-month supply for just $250. Despite an order confirmation “laced with cheerful emojis,” no one would agree to help her manage side effects.
⚠️ Beyond this, there are many real questions and risks to consider:
Limited science: 🧪 Most of the exciting claims about microdosing (inflammation, longevity, reducing menopausal belly) are based on indirect evidence or speculation. There are also no standard guidelines for microdosing, and few large-scale trials show that they deliver the same benefits, or more benefits than standard doses.
Safety unknowns: Wegovy, Ozempic, and other name-brand GLP-1s have a retail cost between $900 to $1,300 per month without insurance. 💸 Telehealth services like Noom use compounded medications to make GLP-1s more affordable, but they may be lower quality and efficacy.
Potential tradeoffs: Too low a dose just might not have any weight loss benefits. In addition, nutrient deficiencies from under-nourishment can expedite muscle loss and bone density loss.*
💡 Key Takeaway
So what does this mean for people considering microdosing?
The evidence isn’t there (yet). Scientists still don’t even know how safe or effective Ozempic is at smaller doses.
Lifestyle matters: A single clinical trial is currently looking at microdosing for longevity, but thousands of trials show that lifestyle does support longevity: healthy diet, movement, strength training, sleep, and stress management.
Proceed cautiously. Experts suggest working with a trusted clinician and getting FDA-approved products.
As the GLP-1s landscape evolves, from microdosing to GLP-1 probiotics that stimulate natural GLP-1 hormone production, one question remains:
can microdosing weight-loss drugs actually slow aging?
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Try this: 🧠 Pay attention to advertisements that pop up on your TV and phone. Which ones make you want to say ‘I need that!”
Thanks for reading!
💌 Until next time.
About the author: Erin is the Senior Editor at Livelong Media, where she explores the intersection of health, science, and the human experience.
The information provided about wellness and health is for general informational and educational purposes only. We are not licensed medical professionals, and the content here should not be considered medical advice. Talk to a doctor before trying any of these suggestions.
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