Microdosing GLP-1 medications: A new weight-loss trend?

Tebra surveyed 640 GLP-1 users about their experiences with microdosing. For private practices using EHR systems to manage chronic care and medication adherence, understanding why patients are microdosing, how they're doing it, and what outcomes they're experiencing is critical. This insight can help providers better anticipate patient behaviors, address concerns, and guide treatment plans.

As more patients try GLP-1 medications, private practices may encounter a growing number of microdosers. Over 1 in 3 GLP-1 users (36%) said they're currently doing so, and another 32% reported having done so in the past. Gen Z is leading the trend, with nearly 9 in 10 users (89%) saying they are or have microdosed, a rate significantly higher than that of older age groups.

Income appears to be another key factor. High-income GLP-1 users were the most likely to currently microdose, with 46% engaging in the practice.

The timing of when users started microdosing varied, but many didn't wait long. More than 2 in 5 (42%) started taking smaller doses than prescribed within the first month of taking GLP-1s. For some, it became a long-term habit. Nearly 1 in 4 (24%) reported doing so for 6 months or longer, while 6% microdosed for over a year.

Many patients are finding out about microdosing through social media, with TikTok named the top source. GLP-1 users also heard about microdosing via Instagram (30%), Reddit (21%), and X (20%). More than half of those who microdosed (55%) made the decision without consulting their doctor.

For private practices, these findings underscore the importance of asking informed questions during consultations, addressing misinformation early, and creating a safe space for open dialogue around off-label medication use.
For providers, using EHR-integrated intake forms and patient-reported outcome tools can surface early signs of off-lable medication behavior and create space for a proactive, nonjudgemental conversation.

GLP-1 users often decide to microdose based on personal goals and affordability. Understanding these motivations can help strengthen patient-provider communication and support safe and effective treatment strategies. With integrated billing and insurance eligibility tools, private practices can help patients better understand their coverage, reducing the need to self-adjust prescriptions.

The most common way GLP-1 users microdosed was by taking smaller injections than prescribed, a method used by 48%. Some younger users took riskier steps: 8% of Millennial and Gen Z microdosers said they used leftover medication from a friend or family member. The top reasons people gave for microdosing were to reduce side effects (66%), ease into the treatment gradually (40%), and save money (38%).

It turns out that not all microdosers were happy with their decision. Over 1 in 5 (22%) expressed regret, and more than half reported feeling discouraged or shamed for microdosing. Some of that judgment came directly from doctors (14%), which highlights the importance of healthcare providers approaching conversations about dosing with empathy.

Interestingly, weight loss satisfaction did not differ between those who microdosed and those who didn't. However, microdosers were 16% more likely to feel confident about maintaining their weight loss over time.

Looking ahead, GLP-1 users microdosing plans varied. While 34% intended to return to their full dose, 33% planned to continue microdosing indefinitely, and 29% were considering stopping GLP-1 use entirely. Knowing users' intentions can help providers tailor follow-up care and proactively guide patients through their treatment journey.

While some providers may see microdosing as a way to ease patients into treatment or reduce side effects, others worry about its risks. Concerns could include underdosing, lack of clinical data on microdosing, and patients making decisions without guidance. As microdosing becomes more common, private practices have an opportunity to meet patients where they are.

By understanding why patients microdose and how it affects their mindset and outcomes, providers can offer more personalized care, correct misinformation, and build trust. As this trend evolves, staying informed will help patients navigate GLP-1 treatment safely and confidently. Tools like automated patient survey sends and secure messaging within an EHR can support safer adherence, while maintaining strong provider-patient relationships.

For this study, Tebra surveyed 640 GLP-1 users about their experiences with their medication, specifically microdosing.

Tebra, headquartered in Southern California, empowers independent healthcare practices with cutting-edge AI and automation to drive growth, streamline care, and boost efficiency. Our all-in-one EHR and billing platform delivers everything you need to attract and engage your patients, including online scheduling, reputation management, and digital communications. 

Inspired by "vertebrae," our name embodies our mission to be the backbone of healthcare success. With over 165,000 providers and 190 million patient records, Tebra is redefining healthcare through innovation and a commitment to customer success. We're not just optimizing operations — we're ensuring private practices thrive.

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