Not sure what benefits you would get at 5mg. It can be run for longer lengths. I have used it twice for 4 months each time. In my experience, I had to be at 100g of carbs a day or lower to not interfere w blood glucose. Some people take it 3 days on 2 days off to avoid the glucose issue. It was easier for me to take it during the work week when my diet is cleaner and skip taking on weekend. Also, it can increase your BP due to retaining fluid.