Lean GLP-1 Protocol
A muscle-preservation protocol for GLP-1 and dual-agonist users. Pairs the incretin drug (dosed for body composition, not speed) with creatine and an optional off-cycle berberine bridge — alongside the non-pharmacological pillars of high protein and resistance training that defend lean mass during rapid fat loss.
Daily Schedule
Timing and dosage for each step
Weekly
5 mg
Once-weekly subcutaneous. Titrate slowly from 2.5mg and hold the lowest effective dose. Slower, moderate-deficit fat loss is more muscle-sparing. Semaglutide is an equivalent alternative at its own dosing.
Daily
5000 mg
Monohydrate, any time. Supports training performance and defends lean mass and strength during the deficit. Stay well hydrated.
Off-cycle
500 mg
Optional metabolic bridge when tapering off the GLP-1 drug — supports glycemic control and blunts appetite rebound. 500mg 2-3x/day with meals. Not a GLP-1 replacement.
Non-Pharmacological Pillars (Essential)
This protocol only works alongside two behavioral inputs that aren't supplements:
- Protein: 1.6-2.2g/kg/day — front-loaded early in the day, 30-50g per meal, with a whey shake to close the gap when appetite is suppressed.
- Resistance training: 3x/week — full-body, progressive overload, near-failure effort. This is the mechanical signal that tells the body to keep muscle. Cardio does not substitute.
Track body composition (DEXA, strength numbers, waist) rather than bodyweight alone. See the full Lean GLP-1 Protocol article for the complete operating procedure.