Low and Microdose GLP-1

Levers’ Low and Microdose GLP-1 program uses compounded Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, two of the most studied and effective metabolic therapies available.

At lower doses, these medications promote stable metabolism, appetite regulation, and cardiometabolic protection with significantly fewer gastrointestinal side effects than standard dosing.

Both medications are part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist family (Tirzepatide also acts on GIP receptors). They help regulate blood sugar, promote satiety, and improve metabolic efficiency, supporting both weight control and long-term health optimization.

While safe and well tolerated for most adults, these are prescription medications that require proper screening for contraindications and ongoing clinical supervision. You can see common and potential side effects in the section below.

Side effects with low or micro doses are generally mild and temporary, and most patients tolerate treatment very well. But as with any GLP-1 medication, it’s important to understand what to expect and know when to contact your provider.

Most Common (mild to moderate):

• Nausea, stomach upset, or early satiety (most common, dose-dependent)
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Fatigue, lightheadedness, or transient “off” feeling after injection
• Headache or reflux (less common with low doses)

Less Common (moderate, occasionally requires dose adjustment).

• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Heartburn or bloating
• Slight increase in heart rate
• Injection site redness or irritation
• Temporary changes in appetite or taste
• Hair thinning. Generally mild and temporary, often linked to rapid weight loss or reduced protein intake rather than the medication itself
• Mild dehydration due to reduced food and fluid intake

Rare but Serious (require immediate discontinuation and medical evaluation):

• Pancreatitis: Severe, lasting abdominal pain (may reach the back), with or without vomiting
• Gallbladder issues: Upper right abdominal pain, fever, or yellowing of skin/eyes
• Kidney problems: Low urine, leg swelling, or fatigue, associated with dehydration more than the medication.
• Vision changes: Blurred or worsening eyesight, report immediately
• Bowel Obstruction
• Allergic reaction: Swelling, hives, rash, or trouble breathing
• Thyroid warning: Avoid if you or family have MTC or MEN2 (thyroid tumor risk seen in rodents; not confirmed in humans)
  
  Additional Semaglutide Info
  Additional Tirzepatide Info

You should not use Semaglutide or Tirzepatide if you:

• Have or have a family history of MTC or MEN2
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of pancreatitis, gallstones, or severe GI disease (e.g., gastroparesis)
• Have severe kidney or liver impairment
• Are taking another GLP-1 or GIP/GLP-1 medication
• Have active suicidal thoughts, eating disorders, or untreated major depression

Use with caution if you have:

• Type 2 diabetes with existing retinopathy or vision changes
• Cardiovascular disease or elevated resting heart rate
• Dehydration, alcohol overuse, or restrictive eating
• History of thyroid nodules or unexplained neck swelling

The active ingredients in these medications Semaglutide and Tirzepatide are FDA-approved under the brand-name drugs such as Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, and Zepbound® only.

The compounded formulations used in Levers programs are produced by state-licensed, FDA-registered 503A compounding pharmacies. Compounded medications are not individually FDA-approved, but they contain the same active pharmaceutical ingredients, allowing for personalized dosing and preventive applications under physician supervision.

Levers has no affiliation with the manufacturers of Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®, or Zepbound®.