Ozempic myths you should not fall for: Can having it for short-term lead to weight loss?

Isn’t taking a lower dose safer? Side effects of weight loss drugs mostly happen when people take higher doses.

Not necessarily. Weight loss medications work in specific ways — some regulate appetite, others affect metabolism and some influence fat absorption. If you take too little, the drug might not be effective at all, or it could disrupt normal body functions in unpredictable ways. For example, appetite-suppressing medicines work by affecting brain chemicals. If taken in an insufficient dose, they may not reduce hunger properly, leading to increased cravings or erratic eating patterns.

If I start with a low dose and slowly increase it, wouldn’t that be better than following the usual dosing plan?

Yes. For most weight loss medicines like semaglutide (which mimics the gut hormone GLP1) and tirzepatide (which mimics GLP1 and a second gut hormone GIP), we have to start with a small dose and slowly increase it so that nausea and vomitting do not occur. However, unless the prescribed dose is taken, we may not get the full effect.

What are the dangers of microdosing?

The biggest risk is that it may not lead to meaningful weight loss, making the treatment ineffective. Additionally, some medications regulate blood sugar or hormones, so improper dosing could cause fluctuations that may lead to fatigue, digestive issues or even worsen existing health conditions. You could also develop a false sense of security, thinking the drug is working when it actually isn’t, delaying real progress.

The dosage and schedule are based on extensive research to ensure both safety and effectiveness. If you have concerns about side effects, talk to your doctor rather than adjusting the dose yourself. There are safer ways to manage side effects, such as changing the timing of the medication or adjusting your diet.

Most importantly, weight loss medications work best when combined with lifestyle changes over time. They are not a magic pill. Let’s focus on sustainable, healthy habits like following a healthy diet, exercising regularly and sleeping on time for long-term success of weight loss.

(Dr Mohan is chairperson of Dr Mohan’s Diabetes Specialities Centre)