Ozempic users lose muscle mass when losing weight. However, this process is natural and is related to the fact that the muscles feel a smaller load during weight loss, according to a study published in the journal Circulation.

Recent studies have shown that Ozempic and analogs (glucagon-like peptide-1) agonist drugs result in almost the same weight loss as gastric bypass surgery. However, rapid weight loss can lead to muscle loss.

In a new study, scientists from the University of Tübingen (Germany) found that glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists lead to a decrease in muscle mass. But that process is natural, as weight reduction means that the muscles are less stressed, and their mass decreases as a result. A similar process occurs with the heart during the treatment of hypertension, as lowering the arterial pressure enables the organ to relax and leads to a natural contraction of the myocardium.

In addition, weight loss in obese people leads to increased sensitivity to insulin and a decrease in the amount of fat in their muscles, and this improves muscle quality.

Scientists have noted that the loss of muscle mass can be harmful for older people. In the future, drugs may be developed for them to support or maintain their muscle mass with the administration of glucagon-like peptide-1 agonists.