Muscle Loss from GLP-1 Drugs Like Ozempic May Be Less Severe Than Previously Thought

New Insights on Muscle Loss with GLP-1 Medications

Recent research suggests that muscle loss associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists such as Ozempic may not be as significant as earlier estimates. While past studies indicated that adults could lose between 5-15% of their body weight with these drugs, a considerable portion of that weight loss was attributed to muscle reduction.

A new study conducted using a mouse model found that muscle loss was around 10%, involving not only skeletal muscles but also other tissues like the liver, which decreased in size by nearly half. This indicates that weight loss from GLP-1 medications may involve complex physiological changes.

Key Findings:

• Muscle loss from GLP-1 drugs may be less than previously believed.
• The reduction affects various tissues, including the liver.
• Muscle strength may decline even if muscle size remains unchanged.

Expert Opinions and Future Directions

Dr. Seth Kipnis emphasizes that some muscle loss is inevitable but stresses the importance of adequate nutrition. Meanwhile, Dr. Kais Rona highlights the need for human trials to better understand these effects, including impacts on muscle function and organ health.

Ongoing research aims to determine whether specific body areas are more vulnerable to muscle loss and how to develop strategies to prevent it, ensuring safer long-term use of GLP-1 medications.

==References==

• Research in Cell Metabolism
• Study in The Lancet
• Expert commentary by Dr. Seth Kipnis
• Interview with Dr. Kais Rona

This evolving research underscores the importance of working with healthcare professionals to monitor muscle health during GLP-1 medication therapy.