Weight-loss doctor warns against unproven GLP-1 microdosing for cosmetic use
Dr. Jody Dushay, a Harvard‑affiliated weight‑loss specialist, says patients are asking about tiny doses of GLP‑1 drugs for cosmetic slimming.
She notes there is no scientific definition of “microdose” for weight loss and no long‑term safety or efficacy data to support such use.
The only doses that have been rigorously tested are the FDA‑approved regimens for semaglutide (Wegovy) and tirzepatide (Zepbound), which range from 0.25 mg up to 7.2 mg weekly for injections or up to 25 mg daily for oral semaglutide.
Because these higher, pharmacologic levels are required for proven benefit, she cautions that using lower, unstudied amounts is speculative and could carry unknown risks.
This writeup was produced by pharmadog from original reporting by STAT.
Original headline: “Opinion: I’m a weight-loss doctor. Here’s why I worry about GLP-1 ‘microdoses’”
read at STAT ↗
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