People taking weight loss medications are being cautioned against following the latest microdosing craze that’s been picking up steam ahead of the festive period. This involves taking smaller amounts of the medication than prescribed to extend the life of injection pens. This trend can spark a host of problems, from injection pens expiring after being open too long to the dangers associated with needle reuse. What’s more, there’s scant research into whether taking smaller, more regular doses of this medication offers any advantages.
Jason Murphy, Head of Pharmacy and weight loss specialist at Chemist4U, cautioned: « One of the greatest problems that can arise from micro-dosing is needle reuse. Those taking smaller doses will need more injections, and this comes with several serious health risks if you’re not also replacing your needle each time. »
Once a needle has pierced your skin, the sharp tip gets dulled which can make future injections more uncomfortable and lead to bruising or swelling and tenderness. Continuing this pattern over time can result in permanent tissue irritation making it far more painful and challenging to inject going forward.
A previously used needle can also get partly clogged by built-up debris which can disrupt the medication being administered. This can lead to unpredictable outcomes, slower improvement or make adverse effects less foreseeable.
One of the most alarming aspects of needle reuse is the bacterial accumulation and contamination that builds up with every injection. Murphy explained: « Even a single reuse of a needle can lead to harmful bacteria build-up directly under your skin. This increases the risk of painful infections, redness, swelling, and can even require medical attention.
« As needles are not sterile after use, each injection with a reused needle creates an opportunity for bacteria to enter your body, putting your health at serious risk. »
Repeated injections in the same spot, even with fresh needles, can also trigger lipohypertrophy, which is an accumulation of lumpy, scarred tissue beneath the skin. These hardened areas also disrupt how effectively the medication is absorbed by the body.
Utilising fresh needles and carefully alternating injection sites can prevent further complications once lipohypertrophy emerges.
Murphy continued: « It is possible that not taking the recommended dose could exacerbate side effects and come with other, unknown risks. For any medication, you should always read the instructions carefully and stick to taking the correct amount.
« If you’re microdosing, even small variations in dose can have a bigger impact on the effectiveness and safety of your treatment. So, important to stick to the recommended dose so results are as effective as possible. »
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