GLP-1 Microdosing for Women in Menopause

Microdosing with GLP-1s is something women in perimenopause, menopause or even postmenopause are exploring. It’s becoming more popular by the day, mainly because more women are looking for gentle, personalized options instead of “one-size-fits-all” approaches.

For this article, our goal is to break down what microdosing is, why women are choosing it and if it’s the right choice for you.

What Is GLP-1 Microdosing, Exactly?

GLP-1 microdosing is a form of GLP-1 therapy that involves starting with a very small, gradual dose of a GLP-1 medication. The point of microdosing is to help your body adjust better to the medication. It’s a personalized approach, but also a slow and steady approach.

For women over 40, hormonal changes can make us more sensitive to things like blood sugar shifts, nausea, inflammation and appetite changes. Microdosing can be a fit, if you’re interested in regulating those changes with GLP-1 treatment, and you’re not sure how the medication will respond to your changing body. With a smaller dose, you get to see right away what it’s like.

At Josie, this concept aligns perfectly with our philosophy of meeting women where they are. Every woman’s body responds differently in perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause. That’s why our providers may recommend starting low and adjusting gradually based on how your body responds, always under professional guidance.

We offer the following microdose options:

• Compounded Tirzepatide Microdose
• Compounded Semaglutide Microdose

*Supporting evidence: Studies show low doses deliver steady results with fewer side effects, perfect for menopause. [Semaglutide Tolerability, 2023]

3 Reasons 1,000+ Josie Women 40+ Choose Microdosing

With over 1,000 patients (women 40+) that choose Josie’s GLP-1 microdosing, we are able to use the data we have to break down why it’s becoming so popular.

The 3 main reasons are:

1. Longevity
2. Easing into it, minimizing side effects / testing the waters
3. Hormone sensitivity

1. Longevity

The number one reason women over 40 choose our compounded GLP-1 microdosing is longevity. Women are becoming more aware of the potential benefits of GLP-1s beyond weight loss, and in relationship to women in menopause.

‍That includes:

• Living well for longer
• Reducing inflammation
• Metabolism reset
• Energy that lasts
• Muscle protection
• Steady blood sugar

Longevity isn’t just about adding years to your life. It’s about adding energy, strength and clarity to the years ahead. We’re talking about living well for longer - keeping your metabolism active, your muscles strong, and your body resilient through midlife and beyond.

Many of our patients at Josie see microdosing as a way to take a measured, sustainable step toward long-term wellness.

*Supporting evidence: A 2025 study found low-dose semaglutide cuts ~6kg in menopause, supporting energy and strength [Low Doses Semaglutide, 2025].

Here are some of the goals and benefits women often focus on when choosing a GLP-1 microdose from Josie:

Metabolic Health: We’re talking potential improvements like balancing your blood sugar, steady energy, reduced inflammation, and boosting your metabolism.

Muscle Preservation + Strength: At Josie, we believe in a holistic approach to a feel good state of being. We like to think of GLP-1 microdose medications as a tool. But to preserve muscle, even build it, which is especially important for women in midlife, it’s important to follow a strength training program, and prioritize high protein meals. That’s why we partnered with the Simply Strong App - an easy-to-follow women’s strength training program with 500+ high protein recipes. If interested, we offer the app 3-months free with your purchase of one of our 3-month bundle plans.

Hormone Resilience: As estrogen and progesterone shift, starting gently and building gradually may help the body adjust more smoothly, supporting better balance and comfort through menopause.

2. Easing Into It, Minimizing Side Effects

The next major reason women choose compounded GLP-1 microdosing at Josie is a gentler approach to the medication. This can stem from fear of side effects, or to “test the waters” so to speak before committing to a regular dose.

Common side effects women in menopause experience when taking a GLP-1 are:

• Nause
• Diahhrea
• Constipation
• Dizziness

It’s safe to say then, that microdosing can minimize the magnitude of the side effects. At the same time, your body can get accustomed to the new medication, which could result in a smoother transition when switching to a regular dose.

When our bodies are already going through hormonal changes, starting a new medication can (and does) make women feel anxious. That’s why many Josie patients prefer to start slow with a microdose.

It’s all about finding your stride without overwhelming your body. By easing into it, you’ll be able to notice how your body responds week by week, and work closely with your provider to adjust at your own pace.

*Supporting Evidence: Research confirms low doses reduce nausea by 50-75%, ideal for sensitive midlife bodies [Semaglutide Tolerability, 2023].

3. Hormone Sensitivity

Finding balance is a core belief here at Josie. Levels of estrogen and progesterone shift during perimenopause and menopause, which can change how your body processes food, regulates blood sugar and even tolerates new medications. In a way then, you can say that some women notice they’re more sensitive to changes in appetite or digestion.

If you’re more sensitive to these changes, a slower, more personalized approach, like GLP-1 microdosing, can make the transition feel smoother and more balanced.

Microdosing may help your body adjust while hormones find a new balance. So, instead of forcing quick results, the microdosing approach would encourage a steady rhythm that works with your body’s natural shifts.

At Josie, our providers take hormone sensitivity into account when personalizing your plan. Whether you’re in perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause, the goal is to support your body through each phase - in a gentle, thoughtful and sustainable way.

*Supporting Evidence: A 2024 trial shows low-dose GLP-1s with hormone therapy improve balance in menopause [Semaglutide + HT, 2024].

What Microdosing Won’t Do

Microdosing isn’t a shortcut. And it’s not meant for anyone trying to drop a large amount of weight quickly. Because the doses are intentionally small and adjusted slowly, results tend to be gradual and focused on comfort and sustainability, not rapid change. If you’re looking to lose weight faster, shop our regular dose options.

Remember, the goal of a GLP-1 microdose is to help your body adapt, support metabolic balance, and make the overall experience smoother, not to replace healthy habits or standard medical care.

We strongly believe that microdosing works best when it’s part of a proven wellness plan that includes strength training, high-protein meals, hydration, and consistent follow-up with your provider.

*Supporting Evidence: A 2025 review confirms low-dose GLP-1s aid 5-10% weight loss in menopause, especially with healthy habits [GLP-1 Review, 2025].

It’s one of the reasons why we partnered with the Simply Strong App - because they have strength training workouts for women over 40 and high protein recipes to help you stay fueled. Some of our patients take advantage of it, while others don’t, but we highly recommend doing so to make lasting changes.

At Josie, we like to remind women that this isn’t about “quick fixes.” It’s about building a foundation for the years ahead - safely, patiently, and in sync with your hormones.

Is Microdosing Right For You?

Microdosing isn’t for everyone, but you may be a good candidate for GLP-1 microdosing if:

• You’re in perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause and want a more gentle, body-aware approach to begin GLP-1 therapy
• You’re aware of side effects and want to minimize them to give your body time to adjust
• You want to use a GLP-1 as a tool and build healthy lifestyle habits, such as strength training and nutrition - to live better longer

Remember it comes back to the three main categories of why women are using a GLP-1 microdose - Longevity, Easing into it and Hormone sensitivity.

Key Stats From Our Microdose Patients at Josie

We surveyed 1,238 patients after 8 weeks of using compounded Tirzepatide microdose from Josie. Here was their feedback on longevity, easing into it, and hormone sensitivity.

Longevity

92% of Josie women 40+ report more energy after 8 weeks of microdosing*

“I’ve got more energy for my morning walks now. It’s not huge, but it helps.” - Lisa, 48

“I feel more awake most days, but it took a month to notice. Worth it, though.” - Diane, 50

Easing Into It, Controlling Side Effects

80% fewer nausea issues vs full-dose GLP-1*

“No nausea at all, which I was so worried about. It’s been smooth.” - Maria, 47

“Less nausea than I expected, but I still felt a bit off the first week.” - Karen, 49

“My gut’s sensitive, but microdosing didn’t upset it. I’m thrilled!” - Emma, 55

Hormone Sensitivity

85% of women 40+ feel more balanced with microdosing*

“My mood swings aren’t as wild now. It’s like my body’s calmer.” - Jen, 45

“I’m not as bloated, and my energy feels steadier this month.” - Rachel, 51

“It helps with mood swings, but I still need Simply Strong’s strength training to feel 100%.” - Linda, 46

*Results based on individual experiences, we do not guarantee the same results for everyone, as each woman’s body will respond differently.

GLP-1 Microdose vs Full Dose for Menopause Women

Not sure if microdosing is your fit? Here’s how Josie’s microdose stacks up against a standard full dose for women 40+ in menopause:

Bottom Line

For women in perimenopause, menopause or postmenopause, microdosing with GLP-1s can be a great fit, but it’s not for everyone.

If you’re wanting to ease into a GLP-1,concerned about side effects, or maybe you’re needing to lose a few pounds and want to focus on longevity, fill out our intake form and our providers will let you know if it’s a good fit.

Whatever your goals are, we’re here to help you achieve them, and we have solutions for every situation. Consider joining Josie for GLP-1 microdose during menopause.

Ready to Start Gentler?

• Personalized for menopause
• Go at your own pace
• Simply Strong App FREE (3 months) with 3 month purchase of a microdosing bundle!

Choose compounded tirzepatide microdose, or compounded semaglutide microdose, fill out the intake form and our Josie providers will review your case.

• Compounded Tirzepatide Microdose
• Compounded Semaglutide Microdose

References

1. Effectiveness of Low Doses of Semaglutide on Weight Loss and Body Composition Among Women in Their Menopause (2025). PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39761057/.
2. Tolerability and Safety of Semaglutide Across Doses in Menopause (2023). PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37467157/.
3. Weight Loss Response to Semaglutide in Postmenopausal Women With and Without Hormone Therapy (2024). Menopause Journal. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38446869/.
4. GLP-1 Receptor Agonists for Weight Loss for Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women (2025). PubMed. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39970049/.