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Weight Drugs: Muscle Loss Epidemic?
12 Jan
Summary
- GLP-1 medications are now used by one in eight US adults.
- Up to 60 percent of weight lost on these drugs could be lean mass.
- Muscle loss increases the risk of falls and potentially fatal injuries.
An increasing number of US adults, now one in eight, are using GLP-1 weight loss medications. While these drugs offer significant benefits for weight reduction and associated health conditions like heart disease, concerns are mounting over a potential hidden cost: substantial muscle loss.
Experts report that analyses of studies indicate a considerable portion of weight lost on these drugs is lean mass, potentially ranging from 25 to 60 percent. This loss of muscle can elevate the risk of falls, particularly in older adults already experiencing age-related muscle decline and sarcopenia, potentially leading to serious injuries and reduced lifespan.
To mitigate muscle loss, doctors recommend a high-protein diet and twice-weekly strength training. However, patient compliance with these crucial lifestyle changes remains a challenge. Despite these concerns, some experts maintain that for many individuals, the overall health benefits of these medications, when used with proper support, outweigh the risks.
