At The Health Suite Leicester, we understand the challenges of weight loss and the concerns that come with rapid changes. Our nurse specialist service in Leicester is designed to help you achieve effective, steady results without harsh side effects or sudden physical changes. Led by our expert nurse practitioners, this approach prioritises your comfort, health, and long-term success.
This blog is designed to provide information about GLP-1 microdosing.
What is GLP-1 Microdosing?
GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro) are powerful tools for weight loss. However, standard dosing can sometimes lead to unwanted side effects and visible changes, such as rapid weight loss around the face. Microdosing involves starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing it under careful supervision, allowing your body to adapt while achieving balanced, sustainable weight loss.
Who May GLP-1 Microdosing be suitable for?
This may be suitable for individuals who:
- Have experienced nausea, bloating, or other side effects with standard GLP-1 dosing.
- Are concerned about the effects of rapid weight loss on their appearance, such as sagging skin or facial volume loss.
- Seek a personalised and gradual approach to weight loss.
What Do the Studies Say About Microdosing?
Studies on tirzepatide (mounjaro), including Phase 2 trials and data from the SURPASS programme, provide valuable insights into the potential benefits of microdosing. A Phase 2 trial evaluating doses as low as 1 mg demonstrated measurable improvements in HbA1c levels and body weight, with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to higher doses, suggesting that starting with microdoses may enhance tolerability.[1] Dose-escalation studies, such as a 12-week trial on gradual titration, revealed that beginning at lower doses (e.g., 4 mg) and slowly increasing to therapeutic levels significantly reduced the incidence of nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea.[2] Additionally, findings from SURPASS-1 and SURPASS-2 highlight the importance of gradual dose increases to improve patient adherence and reduce dropouts.[3, 4] These findings support the concept of microdosing as a tolerable and effective approach for individuals sensitive to standard dosing regimens.
If you would like to discuss any of this information further please book a consultation with our nurse available either in person or online.
Click here to book a Microdosing Nurse Discussion Appointment
References
- Diabetes Journals (2021) Efficacy and safety of tirzepatide in adults with type 2 diabetes. Available at: https://diabetesjournals.org/clinical/article/41/2/258/148021/Efficacy-and-Safety-of-Tirzepatide-in-Adults-With (Accessed: 28 December 2024).
- Diabetes Journals (2019) A 12-week randomized, placebo-controlled study on dose-escalation. Available at: https://diabetesjournals.org/diabetes/article/68/Supplement_1/993-P/57906/993-P-A-12-Week-Randomized-Placebo-Controlled (Accessed: 28 December 2024).
- Rosenstock, J., Wysham, C. and Frias, J.P. (2021) ‘Efficacy and safety of tirzepatide once weekly versus placebo in patients with type 2 diabetes not receiving pharmacological therapy (SURPASS-1): a double-blind, randomised, phase 3 trial’, The Lancet, 398(10295), pp. 143–155. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(21)01324-6.
- Frias, J.P., Davies, M.J. and Rosenstock, J. (2021) ‘Tirzepatide versus semaglutide once weekly in patients with type 2 diabetes (SURPASS-2): a randomised, open-label, parallel-group, multicentre, phase 3 trial’, The Lancet, 398(10295), pp. 583–598. DOI: 10.1016/S0140-6736(21)01324-6.
Potential Benefits of GLP-1 Microdosing at The Health Suite
- Reduced Side Effects: Mitigates nausea, bloating, and other common issues.
- Minimised Facial Volume Loss: Slower weight loss helps maintain a natural, balanced appearance.
- Holistic Support: Access complementary services to enhance your results and address any concerns.
- Expert Supervision: Benefit from the experience of our nurse-led team who prioritise your safety.
Associated Services at The Health Suite Leicester
To support your weight loss journey we offer a range of complementary services:
- Nutrition Consultations: Personalised dietary guidance to support balanced weight loss and energy levels.
- Strength & Fitness Programmes: Tailored plans to help preserve muscle mass and improve overall health.
- Hormonal Testing & Therapy: Comprehensive assessments and treatments to optimise your health during weight loss.
- Stress & Sleep Management: DUTCH testing and advice to improve sleep quality and reduce stress, supporting long-term weight management.
Why Choose The Health Suite?
At The Health Suite in Leicester, we combine innovation with a patient-centred approach to deliver truly personalised care. Our GLP-1 microdosing programme is tailored to your unique needs, supported by a range of associated services to ensure you feel and look your best throughout your weight loss journey.
If you would like to discuss any of this information further please book in for a consultation with our nurse available either in person or online.
Click here to book a Microdosing Nurse Discussion Appointment
Common Q&A about Microdosing GLP-1 for weight loss
GLP-1 microdosing involves administering lower-than-standard doses of GLP-1 receptor agonist medications, such as semaglutide (Ozempic) or tirzepatide (Mounjaro), to promote weight loss while minimizing side effects. This gradual approach allows the body to adapt to the medication, potentially reducing gastrointestinal discomfort and other adverse effects.
Unlike standard dosing, which starts at higher doses, microdosing begins with smaller amounts that are gradually increased. This method aims to achieve weight loss with fewer side effects, making the treatment more tolerable for individuals sensitive to higher doses.
Individuals who have experienced side effects from standard GLP-1 dosing, those seeking a personalised weight loss approach, or individuals concerned about rapid weight loss and its impact on appearance may benefit from microdosing.
Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and bloating. Microdosing can help minimize these gastrointestinal issues by allowing the body to adjust more gradually to the medication.
While individual results may vary, microdosing has been reported to result in gradual and sustainable weight loss. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most effective dosing strategy for your needs.
'Ozempic face' refers to facial volume loss and sagging skin resulting from rapid weight loss associated with GLP-1 medications. Microdosing promotes slower weight loss, which may help maintain facial fullness and skin elasticity.
As with any medication, there are potential risks. While microdosing may reduce the likelihood of side effects, it's crucial to undergo treatment under medical supervision to monitor for any adverse reactions.
The timeline for noticeable weight loss varies among individuals. Generally, gradual weight loss can be observed over several weeks to months, depending on factors like adherence to the dosing schedule and lifestyle modifications.
The Health Suite provides a comprehensive approach, including nutritional guidance, fitness programs, aesthetic treatments to address concerns like 'Ozempic face,' and ongoing medical supervision to support your weight loss journey.
To begin, schedule an initial consultation with our experienced nurse practitioners. During this appointment, we'll assess your medical history, discuss your weight loss goals, and create a personalized microdosing plan tailored to your needs.