Individuals using GLP-1 medications have raised concerns after experiencing an unforeseen side effect linked to their weight loss.
Medications such as Wegovy, approved for managing chronic weight issues, and Ozempic, used for treating type 2 diabetes, function by reducing ‘food noise’ to mitigate food-related thoughts and cravings.
While many find these drugs effective, some users have noted unexpected impacts, including changes in sex drive and bowel habits.
Among these side effects, the most significant one affecting daily life is the reduction in muscle mass.
A user shared on a Wegovy subreddit: “I started at 203 and I’m down to 171 since April, so my experience overall has been great. But I’ve been noticing how extremely weak my legs have been.”
The user continued to explain their condition: “My calves hurt after a day of light walking, or my thighs hurt from going up just a few stairs. I actually struggle to go up a stair case and I’m only 32. I know a lot of people are working out, and I do need to begin exercising on top of the wegovy, but I’m just wondering if anyone else is experiencing extreme weakness or if it’s just me and my un-toned self.”
Similarly, on an Ozempic subreddit, a user sought advice on muscle building, stating: “I’m on 2mg, been taking about a year. I’m type 2 so it wasn’t really meant for weight loss. I’m 6’1 177# I was about 230 when I started. My legs are skinny, I lost muscle mass in my arms. I feel awkward, and a bit self conscious. I know I’m out of shape. How do I go about getting some muscle back[?]… I don’t want to spend a fortune on a gone gym. I’m hoping there’s something I can do to gain some muscle back. Is it even possible while taking oz?”
Earlier this year, a study from the University of Utah indicated that weight loss from Ozempic resulted in about a 10 percent reduction in lean mass, predominantly from tissues like the liver.
Ran Hee Choi, PhD, a co-author of the study, mentioned that loss of mass in metabolically active organs such as the liver is anticipated during healthy weight loss. However, the researchers stressed the need for more studies to understand if similar changes occur in humans and if they pose any risks.
In mouse studies, the researchers observed that some skeletal muscles decreased in size by about six percent on average.
Tests on the mice’s strength revealed that for some muscles, strength waned even without significant size reduction, while other muscles maintained their strength.
In response to inquiries about muscle mass loss, Novo Nordisk stated: “In clinical trials for Wegovy or Ozempic we did not specifically study the medicine’s impact on muscle mass. In a sub-study of 140 patients with a BMI of 40 or less conducted as part of the STEP 1 trial, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) analyses suggested that treatment with Wegovy was accompanied by reductions in both fat mass and lean body mass, with a greater reduction in fat mass than lean body mass.”
“We recommend that any patients experiencing side effects while taking Wegovy or Ozempic contact their healthcare provider.”
To maximize the benefits of GLP-1 medications, pharmacist Nayan Patel advised Vox users to ‘change their habits’ as well.
Patel highlighted the significance of incorporating a high-protein diet rich in amino acids and engaging in strength training. This approach helps the body efficiently reduce fat while preserving essential strength.
Patel commented: “If you don’t change your behavior, if you don’t change your habits, you may be looking good, you may be losing weight, but metabolically, your body is in turmoil. We’ve got to use these drugs in the right manner.”