Experts Warn Against Microdosing GLP-1 Drugs for Weight Loss

Compounded versions of the medications may pose safety risks, doctors say

Apr. 3, 2026 at 5:51pm

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An extreme close-up X-ray photograph of a syringe filled with a glowing, ghostly liquid medication, conceptually illustrating the internal structure and potential dangers of using compounded GLP-1 drugs for weight loss.An X-ray view of a microdosed GLP-1 medication highlights the potential risks of using untested compounded drugs for weight loss.Cleveland Today

A growing number of Americans, including some celebrities, are turning to microdosing of GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, but experts caution that these compounded versions are untested and may carry significant risks. Doctors advise focusing on lifestyle changes first before considering prescription weight loss medications.

Why it matters

The popularity of microdosing GLP-1 drugs highlights the demand for affordable and effective weight loss solutions, but the use of untested compounded medications raises concerns about safety and efficacy. This trend also underscores the need for better education and access to evidence-based weight management strategies.

The details

Microdosing involves taking smaller, custom-made versions of FDA-approved GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, often purchased through telehealth companies. While this approach may save money or reduce side effects, doctors warn that compounded GLP-1 medications are not verified for safety or quality, and could contain dangerous additives or lead to measurement errors and accidental overdoses. The FDA is taking action to limit the use of these compounded versions, stating they can only be made when there is a shortage of the approved drugs, which is not the case currently.

  • In 2025, a survey from health tracking app Evidant found that one in seven people using GLP-1 drugs were microdosing.
  • Last September, actress Rebel Wilson spoke about her positive experience with Noom's microdose GLP-1 program.
  • Last year, Bravo host Andy Cohen and reality TV star Brooks Nader both publicly discussed their use of microdosed GLP-1 medications.

The players

Novant Health

A hospital group that serves 6 million patients, which recently warned that smaller GLP-1 doses carry risks for users and are not even that effective.

Noom

A prominent telehealth company that sells microdoses of GLP-1 drugs, using semaglutide as the active ingredient. The company says it partners with an FDA-regulated facility to produce its drugs.

Dr. W. Scott Butsch

The Director of Obesity Medicine in the Bariatric and Metabolic Institute at the Cleveland Clinic, who does not recommend using compounded versions of GLP-1 medications because they are untested.

Dr. John Cleek

An obesity medicine doctor at Novant Health General Surgery & Bariatrics - Mount Pleasant, who said that most people aren't comfortable injecting themselves with a "random unknown drug" like a compounded GLP-1.

Dr. Katy Williams

A bariatric medicine specialist at the University of Missouri Health Care, who advises focusing on lifestyle changes first before considering prescription weight loss medications.

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What they’re saying

“I felt amazing, I looked amazing.”

— Rebel Wilson, Actress

“It was enough for me. It kickstarted something.”

— Andy Cohen, Bravo Host

“I don't recommend using compounded versions of these medications because they're untested - both in their effectiveness and their safety.”

— Dr. W. Scott Butsch, Director of Obesity Medicine, Bariatric and Metabolic Institute, Cleveland Clinic

“Most people usually aren't okay with injecting themselves with a random unknown drug. But that's essentially what you're doing if you use a compounded GLP-1 drug.”

— Dr. John Cleek, Obesity Medicine Doctor, Novant Health General Surgery & Bariatrics - Mount Pleasant

“Work on your lifestyle first. Your doctor or a weight loss specialist will absolutely be able to find places where you can make meaningful lifestyle changes that can result in five to 10 pounds of weight loss.”

— Dr. Katy Williams, Bariatric Medicine Specialist, University of Missouri Health Care

What’s next

The FDA is taking action to limit the use of compounded GLP-1 drugs, stating they can only be made when there is a shortage of the approved versions, which is not the case currently.

The takeaway

While microdosing GLP-1 drugs may seem like an attractive option for weight loss, the use of untested compounded medications carries significant risks that outweigh the potential benefits. Experts recommend focusing on evidence-based lifestyle changes first before considering prescription weight loss treatments under the guidance of a healthcare provider.