On a brisk January evening, Samira Shamoon, a 44-year-old health and beauty publicist, caught the attention of her friends with her radiant skin and defined cheekbones as she walked into an Italian restaurant. When asked about her secret, she enthusiastically shared that she was “microdosing!”
Shamoon is part of a growing trend of individuals who are microdosing with diabetes medications like Ozempic (semaglutide) and other GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Mounjaro. While weight loss is a common benefit of these drugs, many are also exploring their anti-inflammatory properties. Rather than taking the full weekly dose, people are only taking half or less. Shamoon, who was always slender due to her running routine, was drawn to the prescription drug for its ability to reduce puffiness in her face and enhance mental clarity while also reducing the risk of diseases like heart disease, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s.
Dr. Caroline Messer, a renowned endocrinologist in Manhattan, has seen an increase in inquiries about microdosing from individuals with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer’s. She emphasizes that the key benefit is not just decreased blood sugar, but decreased inflammation, which is crucial for preventing Alzheimer’s. Similar to how Type 2 diabetes affects insulin resistance, Alzheimer’s can be considered a form of Type 3 diabetes due to the brain’s insulin resistance in individuals with the disease.
The practice of microdosing can provide lasting mental benefits, according to Dr. Anetta Reszko, a dermatologist on Park Avenue. Microdosing semaglutide may offer gradual and sustained effects on brain health, immune function, and overall well-being by modulating pathways that reduce neuroinflammation and cognitive decline.
Dr. Amanda Kahn, an internist and longevity specialist, also reports positive outcomes from microdosing, including increased clarity and energy, reduced aches and pains, and even alleviation of conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Dr. Babak Azizzadeh, a facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, notes the popularity of microdosing GLP-1 receptor agonists in the Southern California community, likening it to the trajectory of Botox’s usage for various health benefits beyond its initial cosmetic application.
In the Hollywood community, internist and obesity specialist Pooja Gidwani incorporates GLP-1 microdosing into a longevity approach, often in combination with peptides and co-enzyme NAD IVs. Microdosing can also help manage addictive behaviors and cravings for substances beyond food, leading to improved emotional stability and mood.
Overall, microdosing offers a range of benefits, from weight management to improved mental clarity and emotional well-being. By taking smaller doses, individuals can avoid unpleasant side effects and save money while achieving their desired health goals. This trend is on the rise in various communities, including Hollywood, where individuals are seeking innovative approaches to enhance their overall health and well-being.
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