Weight Loss Medications May Cause Deterioration of Skeletal Muscle Health
A new study says that weight loss Medications can be the cause of deteriorating skeletal muscle health. In a recent commentary published in The Lancet, researchers from the US and Canada highlighted the critical importance of skeletal muscle mass in the context of medically induced weight loss, particularly with the widespread use of GLP-1 receptor agonists.
GLP-1 receptors are present in popular diabetes and weight loss medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound. GLP-1 receptors are proteins found on the cell surface that play an important role in regulating blood sugar levels and metabolism. These receptors stimulate insulin secretion from the pancreas while inhibiting the release of glucagon, which is a hormone that raises blood sugar levels. This helps lower blood sugar after eating.
GLP-1 receptors also influence appetite control, thereby improving feelings of satiety and potentially helping to control weight. Medications that mimic GLP-1, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, have been developed to help control type 2 diabetes and obesity by enhancing these natural effects, helping to control blood sugar and promoting weight loss.
Researchers from the Pennington Biomedical Research Center in the US, the Universities of Alberta and McMaster in Canada argued that while the drugs have shown extreme potential in treating obesity, it is a precursor to many diseases such as Diabetes, hypertension and cancer can also cause significant loss of muscle mass as part of the weight loss process.
They noted that muscle loss, which is measured by the decrease in fat-free mass, can account for 25 to 39 percent of the total weight lost between 36 and 72 weeks. The function of skeletal muscle is not only to maintain strength and physical function, but it is also important for metabolic health and regulation of the body’s immune system.
The team found that GLP-1 receptor agonists cause significantly more muscle deterioration than with a non-pharmacological calorie-restricted diet or normal aging. This, the researchers said, “could have unintended negative health consequences.”
People with low muscle mass have decreased immunity and are at higher risk for infections, poor glucose regulation, and other health risks. Additionally, the researchers noted that muscle loss caused by weight reduction may also worsen sarcopenic obesity, which is prevalent among people with obesity and contributes to cardiovascular disease and higher mortality rates.
Dr. Steven Heymsfield, professor of metabolism and body composition at Pennington, called on people seeking weight loss medications Be “aware of side effects.” He added that while taking the drugs, people “eat less and don’t get the right amount of vitamins and minerals in their diet.” Researchers suggest that an adequate amount of protein along with an optimal amount of exercise should be explored along with medications.
(With inputs from IANS)
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