Microdosing: The New Frontier in GLP-1 RAs

In the last two years, GLP-1 RAs (Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists) have absolutely changed the landscape of the obesity fight and given people who have struggled with their weight new hope. 

As we learn more about this revolutionary medicine, studies are now showing a host of other benefits at a fraction of the dose. 

This is called “micro-dosing.” In simple terms, it means administering a dose lower than the recommended amount. We will explore the myriad of benefits this offers and if they could be right for you. 

GLP-1 Benefits

In 2005, the FDA approved the use of GLP-1 RAs in the form of a twice-daily injection for adults with type 2 Diabetes. Most people are familiar with its current use as a long-acting once-a-week injection as Semaglutide is the active ingredient in Ozempic, and Wegovy. Tirzepatide is the active ingredient in Mounjaro and Zepbound. 

In addition to approval of these peptides for weight loss and diabetes, in recent months they received approval for cardiovascular health and just last week, Sleep Apnea. It seems the list of benefits just continues to grow, and also includes: kidney health, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, Alzheimers and Parkinsons disease. 

One universal benefit that is widely reported but still not fully understood is its anti-inflammatory properties. Its believed that this is because the medications reduce levels of IL-6 (interleukin 6), tumor necrosis factor-a (TNF-a) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP).

In animal studies, Semaglutide demonstrated neuroprotective and improved cognitive function by inhibiting the release of inflammatory cytokines mediated by the NLRP3 inflammasome, a protein regulating the innate immune system and inflammatory responses.

Why Should I Microdose?

Microdosing GLP-1 medications is not intended as the first line in substantial weight loss, although inadvertently, most people have reported mild, gradual weight loss as microdosing helps mitigate issues that cause weight gain, such as inflammation. Microdosing is rapidly gaining popularity amongst holistic medical practices as the studies are showing such extraordinary benefits without the side effects from following the recommended dosing from the manufacturer. 

Most people who discontinue this medication at recommended levels will do so due to side effects or cost. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain and bloating. Microdosing can help reduce or eliminate these side effects while still delivering incredible health benefits. 

A naturopathic physician, Dr Tyna Moore, suggests that it is a more sustainable approach to long-term success and allows the body to adjust more naturally to rising GLP-1 levels. The safety of these medications is not being debated, and though there are no studies officially done on microdosing GLP-1 medications, the evidence is there. Online forums with self-reported users touting incredible improvement, specifically in inflammation. Holistic providers are reporting positive results in all areas of concern for patients.

Fighting Inflammation

Inflammation of the body occurs with a poor diet (rich in unhealthy fats, added sugar and processed food), smoking, hormonal imbalance, sleep issues, obesity, stress, and a multitude of auto-immune-related conditions. Symptoms of long-term inflammation in the body include correlation to diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), arthritis and other joint disease, allergies, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), psoriasis, and rheumatoid arthritis. It is a broad term that encompasses a lot of health struggles adults are facing. The most widely reported improvement with microdosing this medication is in reducing inflammation. Many of our patients report an immediate improvement in joint pain and swelling of the hands and feet. 

Menopause

Menopause is a chapter of life that we dread as women, and are often given resources that many of us are uncomfortable with to combat menopause weight gain, including hormone treatment. 

Feedback from women who are microdosing are reporting that they feel less bloating, and the weight begins to gradually return to pre-menopause weight. Most women report gaining 1-2 lbs a year in perimenopause (the years leading up to the cessation of periods). GLP-1 microdosing helps ease the symptoms of perimenopause. 

Micro-dosing Customization

Another feature of micro-dosing is the ability to customize it according to patients’ goals and tolerance. Everyone is different, and each body responds differently to medication. Naturopathic doctors are encouraging the whole body approach when treating a patient and microdosing allows you to individualize your treatment plan to maximize benefits and reduce the negative effects. Microdosing is a much more economical option as well, with the long-term benefits being hard to quantify as they encompass mental and physical benefits.

GLP-1 Treatment in Richmond, VA

At Vita Pure, we have cultivated a total health approach to our treatment suggestions. We have a team of medical staff that take the time to hear what your goals are and what hasn’t worked in the past.

We are your partners in your journey back to health and also believe that the right support system is critical to being successful. We have been closely following the literature and studies as the uses of these GLP-1 medications evolve and promise more benefits for our patients. 

Incorporating microdosing is just one other resource for our patients who don’t need substantial weight loss but are instead looking to optimize their health. We encourage you to set up a consultation and decide if microdosing GLP-1 is right for you!