The Rise of Microdosing GLP-1 Drugs in the US
Microdosing GLP-1 drugs for weight loss is becoming increasingly popular among Americans, with many seeking to save money or avoid gastrointestinal side effects. According to a 2025 survey by health tracking app Evidant, approximately 12% of American adults are using GLP-1s, which were originally developed as diabetes medications. A significant portion—about one in seven—of these users are opting for microdosing, where smaller doses of the drug are taken.
This trend has been supported by some telehealth companies, including Noom, which has gained attention for its approach. Actress Rebel Wilson, who serves as a spokesperson for the brand, shared her positive experience with the microdose GLP-1 program, stating that she felt amazing and looked great.
Other public figures, such as Bravo host Andy Cohen and reality TV star Brooks Nader, have also spoken about their use of microdosing. Cohen mentioned that it was enough for him and helped kickstart his journey. However, not all medical professionals are convinced of the benefits of this practice.
Risks Associated with Microdosing
A recent warning from Novant Health, a hospital group serving 6 million patients, highlights the potential risks of microdosing GLP-1s. They argue that smaller doses may not be as effective and could pose significant health risks. Dr. John Cleek from Novant Health General Surgery & Bariatrics – Mount Pleasant warned that compounded versions of these medications are not approved by the FDA, raising concerns about their safety and effectiveness.
Compounded drugs, which are custom-made by licensed pharmacists, are often created by splitting larger doses of FDA-approved GLP-1s into smaller portions. These products are not subject to the same rigorous testing as standard medications. The FDA has taken steps to limit the use of these compounded versions, allowing them only when there is a shortage of approved GLP-1s. Currently, there is no shortage.
Noom, a prominent telehealth company offering microdoses of GLP-1, uses semaglutide as its active ingredient. While the company claims to partner with an FDA-regulated facility, concerns remain about the quality and safety of these compounded drugs.
Safety Concerns and Medical Advice
The lack of FDA approval for compounded GLP-1s raises several safety issues. Drugs produced in non-sterile environments can lead to bacterial infections, and errors in measuring doses may result in accidental overdoses. Brown Health reported a nearly 1,500% increase in calls related to overdosing on injected weight loss drugs in 2023.
Dr. W. Scott Butsch, Director of Obesity Medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, advises against using compounded versions of these medications due to their untested nature. He emphasized that these drugs may contain undisclosed additives that could interact with other medications or health conditions. Additionally, GLP-1s can affect how certain blood thinners and hormonal birth control work in the body.
“Most people aren’t okay with injecting themselves with a random unknown drug,” Cleek said. “But that’s essentially what you’re doing if you use a compounded GLP-1 drug.”
Lifestyle Changes Should Come First
Doctors stress that the weight-loss benefits of microdosing do not outweigh the risks. Dr. Katy Williams, a bariatric medicine specialist at University of Missouri Health Care, advises individuals to focus on lifestyle changes before considering any medication. She suggests that meaningful lifestyle modifications can lead to weight loss of five to 10 pounds without the need for drugs.
Microdosing to reduce side effects like nausea and vomiting is also ineffective, according to Butsch. These symptoms typically subside over time, and doctors can recommend dietary changes or anti-nausea medication to manage them. Taking reduced doses may lead to the drug leaving the system faster, resulting in recurring side effects when the dose is taken again.
