Ozempic may be linked to muscle loss in users

Doctors and analyses cited in this article report that GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic can be associated with loss of muscle or other lean tissue, and experts say this may increase fall and injury risk, particularly in older adults.

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs have become widely used and are praised for helping people lose weight and reduce some health risks. A Kaiser Family Foundation poll cited in the article finds about one in eight adults in the US are taking these medications. Some clinicians and studies reported in the article raise concerns that a substantial share of weight lost on these drugs can be lean tissue rather than fat. Experts say this could have implications for strength and stability as people age. Key findings: - The KFF poll cited estimates roughly one in eight US adults are using GLP-1 medications, amounting to over 30 million people. - Some clinicians quoted report that patients on weight-loss doses commonly lose at least some muscle; pooled analyses cited suggest about 25–35% of weight lost on the drugs may be muscle, bone or other lean mass, while other studies have estimated 40–60% in some cases. - The article notes the average user in the poll was aged 50–64, and experts expressed concern that additional lean-tissue loss at those ages could increase risk of sarcopenia and fall-related injuries. - Doctors in the report said patients are commonly advised to support protein intake and resistance exercise, but clinicians also reported difficulties with consistent patient adherence to those recommendations. Summary: Experts quoted and analyses reported in the article indicate that GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic are associated with some loss of muscle or other lean tissue, which could raise risks tied to falls and related injuries, particularly among older adults. Research findings and clinical views vary, and next steps for monitoring or policy are undetermined at this time.