GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs such as Wegovy and Zepbound are dramatically changing the obesity treatment landscape. Overall, these medications curb appetite and promote rapid fat loss. But while patients lose fat on them, many report an unfortunate side effect: muscle loss.
Consequently, this has raised health concerns among doctors and researchers alike.
As a result, scientists and pharmaceutical companies are now exploring ways to protect muscle mass during weight loss treatment.
Loss of Muscle Mass
Overall, clinical studies show that up to 40% of weight loss on GLP-1 drugs may come from lean muscle.
This is concerning, as it supports metabolism, mobility, and overall health, especially as people age.
Moreover, this loss can reduce energy levels and increase injury risk. Therefore, preservation during weight loss is crucial.
Promising Research Offers Hope
Fortunately, new research shows GLP-1 drugs don’t always result in heavy muscle loss. In a recent study, 200 adults received GLP-1 and GLP-1/GIP drug treatment for six months.
Correspondingly, participants combined medication with protein-rich diets and supervised workouts. As a result, they lost mostly fat, not muscle.
In fact, the loss was minimal. This indicates that proper support can protect lean mass during weight loss therapy.
Furthermore, participants who stuck to treatment plans showed better results than those who didn’t.
Preserving Muscle on Weight Loss Drugs
Experts suggest three key strategies.
First, resistance training. Strength-based workouts help stimulate muscle growth and prevent decline.
Second, maintain adequate protein intake. Protein repairs muscles and supports recovery after exercise.
Third, get medical supervision. Doctors can adjust treatment, track muscle mass, and offer personalized advice.
Together, these strategies reduce the risk of loss while supporting fat reduction.
Additionally, researchers emphasize consistency. The more regularly these strategies are followed, the better the outcomes.
“If the narrative shifts from amount of weight lost over to how long someone can actually keep that weight loss off, that might be a powerful story,” Riley McCarthy, senior project manager at NECG (New England Consulting Group), told Reuters.
Drugmakers in Race
In response, pharmaceutical companies are also working on this issue. Notably, they’re developing advanced GLP-1 drugs that target fat without harming muscle.
For example, Regeneron is testing a drug that combines GLP-1 with a myostatin inhibitor, which promotes muscle growth.
Furthermore, initial trials are promising. Early results indicate muscle mass preservation, even during weight loss.
Although these drugs need further trials, they could mark a major step forward in obesity care.
Fat Loss with Muscle Preservation
GLP-1 drugs can help many lose weight safely. However, preserving muscle is essential for long-term health.
Therefore, combining medication with strength training and nutrition is vital. Moreover, medical experts urge patients to work with professionals.
While drug innovations are on the horizon, simple lifestyle changes still make a big impact.
In conclusion, fat loss shouldn’t come at the cost of strength. With the right plan, you can have both.
Photo: Freepik
