Do weight loss medications put muscles at risk?

Drugs like Ozempic or Wegovy, based on semaglutide and originally designed to treat type 2 diabetes, have recently gained popularity as weight loss solutions. But a new study, published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiologywarns of potentially worrying side effects: reduction of muscles, including the heart muscle. A discovery which encourages us to reconsider the risks linked to their use outside of the initial prescription.

Lose weight… but also strength

Researchers from the University of Alberta, Canada, highlighted notable muscle loss in semaglutide users, first observed in mice, then confirmed in human heart cells. This loss concerns not only the skeletal muscles (8.2% decrease in muscle mass), but also the heart. Although the scientists did not detect an immediate functional impact on the mice’s hearts, they warn that deleterious effects could occur in the longer term or in cases of cardiac stress. “There is an urgent need to more carefully evaluate the effects on cardiac structure and function in clinical studies”we can read in a press release.

Citing other trials, the researchers observed that up to 40% of the weight lost with these drugs comes from muscle – an alarming rate compared to traditional diets or natural aging. However, we know that muscle loss can lead to serious health problems: reduced immunity, increased risk of infections, poor healing and blood sugar management, etc. “Muscles are not just for moving or carrying heavy objects, explain the scientists. They play a vital role in maintaining overall health.” For example, they release specific molecules that strengthen the immune system and support the body’s repair processes.

Preserve muscles during treatment

To limit the harmful effects of these medications, experts recommend an approach combining nutrition and physical activity. A diet rich in protein, vitamins and essential nutrients is crucial, as is regular resistance exercise, such as muscle strengthening. These strategies help minimize muscle wasting and optimize the benefits of treatments. “Losing weight should not come at the expense of muscle health”recall the authors.

Note that this is not the first study to point out certain harmful side effects of weight-loss drugs. Recently, researchers have notably highlighted a potential link between semaglutide and non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, a rare eye disease that causes blindness in one eye.