GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovi are gaining attention not only for their effectiveness in managing diabetes and aiding weight loss but also for their expanding health benefits. Interestingly, some medical professionals, such as Dr. Terry Dubrow, a plastic surgeon and TV personality from Newport Beach, California, suggest that even individuals who don’t wish to lose weight might benefit from taking a lower dose daily.
Dr. Dubrow highlighted these advantages in discussions about “mineralizing” these medications, indicating their importance during a conversation with Fox News Digital.
Understanding GLP-1
GLP-1 receptor agonists work by imitating a hormone known as glucagon-like peptide-1, which our intestines release post-meals. These drugs help manage blood sugar, slow stomach emptying, curb appetite, and may even lower heart disease risks.
As Dr. Dubrow pointed out, “Sugar is the enemy, and these medications impact blood sugar levels.” They assist insulin in moving glucose from the bloodstream into cells. This not only fuels the body but also minimizes inflammation, reducing sugar-related damage to blood vessels, nerves, and organs.
Adding to their appeal, GLP-1 drugs are also known to lower the risk of cardiovascular events and certain kidney diseases for specific patients.
“I haven’t seen medications approved this quickly in medical history,” Dr. Dubrow remarked. He further stated that even those who aren’t overweight might lower their chances of recurrent heart attacks by using GLP-1 drugs.
Recently, semaglutide received approval for treating mash, an inflammatory form of fatty liver disease.
GLP-1 drugs are also being explored for potential cognitive benefits, particularly in Parkinson’s disease patients.
Dr. Dubrow, alongside other experts, advocates for a practice called microdosing—this involves daily, lower doses of the drug, regardless of a need for diabetes or obesity treatment. Generally, diabetes patients see their dosages increase every few weeks, but microdosing sticks to lower, stable amounts.
He noted, “I’m really into the idea of microdosing. A smaller dose, perhaps administered every ten days, could help regulate blood sugar levels effectively.”
However, Dr. Dubrow cautioned that while there are clear benefits, many uncertainties remain regarding GLP-1 drugs.
Potential Concerns
As with any medication, GLP-1 drugs come with some risks. Common concerns include gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea and vomiting. There have also been reports linking these drugs to increased chances of pancreatitis, muscle loss, and even rare thyroid tumors.
Dr. Dubrow emphasized, “I’ve reviewed the existing research and can confidently say these drugs aren’t causing pancreatitis.” In fact, he shared that in populations already utilizing these medications, the risk of pancreatitis seems lower.
However, he did acknowledge the association between GLP-1 drugs and an increased risk of medullary thyroid cancer, which is quite rare. “If you have a family history of this condition, it’s a definite contraindication,” he advised.
Many doctors note that while these drugs do slow digestion, the body typically adapts, and side effects often subside over time as they are natural hormones produced in our intestines.
Dr. Dubrow pointed out that the severity of adverse effects often relates to dosage. He believes that lower doses, especially through microdosing, are less likely to result in troublesome side effects like constipation or GERD. To mitigate muscle loss risks, he suggests increasing protein intake and incorporating resistance training into one’s routine.
If anyone experiences significant side effects, consulting a healthcare professional is crucial.
Manufacturers’ Concerns
When approached for comment, the manufacturers of GLP-1 drugs caution against the practice of microdosing. Eli Lilly, which produces Mounjaro and Zepbound, noted that they lack data regarding the benefits or risks associated with microdosing. They stated that these products are approved for single use only and that off-label usage poses a patient safety risk.
Novo Nordisk, makers of Ozempic and Wegovy, also stressed that misuse of their medications is not tolerated and highlighted the importance of utilizing FDA-approved dosages.
Looking Forward
On the topic of supply, Dr. Dubrow feels optimistic that large pharmaceutical companies can scale up production to meet rising demand. Although off-label uses like microdosing are prevalent, he warns against purchasing these medications from questionable online sources, as the risks of receiving ineffective or harmful substances are high.
In terms of future developments, Dr. Dubrow predicts that we’ll see new drugs that target various hormonal pathways to manipulate hunger and insulin resistance more effectively, possibly through pills within the next five years. He believes GLP-1 drugs are here to stay, stating, “They’re only improving, and we will learn to use them in more effective ways.” As he puts it, “Buckle up. If you’re not using them now, you likely will in the future.”
