The Digester
health

Experts warn against microdosing GLP-1 weight-loss drugs

Microdosing of GLP-1 drugs to save money or lessen side effects is rising in the US, but doctors and regulators warn compounded microdoses are unapproved, potentially unsafe, and often ineffective.

Apr 3rd 2026 · United States

Insights

  • About 12% of American adults use GLP-1 drugs and one in seven GLP-1 users report microdosing, according to a 2025 survey.
  • Microdoses are often sold as compounded versions created by splitting FDA-approved drugs, and these compounded drugs are not FDA approved.
  • The FDA says companies may only market compounded GLP-1s during an approved shortage, and no shortage currently exists.
  • Compounded products risk contamination, measurement errors, undisclosed additives, and have been linked to a large rise in accidental overdose calls.
  • Clinicians say microdosing is unlikely to produce meaningful weight loss for most people and will not reliably reduce gastrointestinal side effects.
  • Experts recommend supervised medical care and lifestyle changes before resorting to untested compounded microdoses marketed by telehealth companies and influencers.

Sources