The Hidden Dangers Of GLP-1 Weight Loss Drugs: Muscle And Bone Health at Risk

A class of injectable drugs typically prescribed for type 2 diabetes has recently become increasingly popular for weight loss. Glucagon-like peptide-1 or GLP-1 medications, also known as semaglutide, including Ozempic, Weygovy, and Mounjaro may seem like an easy way to lose weight, but like other drugs, they come with risks and potential side effects. These medications deliver a compound that mimics a hormone produced in the body known as GLP-1, and their side effects are of particular concern for Savers.

We'll look at studies that have shown that the weight lost by people on these new drugs includes a troubling amount of muscle loss– with dire implications for bone health, and other detrimental side effects.

A Recent Class Of Drugs For Weight Loss

The drugs Ozempic and Wegovy are both the compound called semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) sold by Novo Nordisk. Wegovy is FDA-approved for weight loss and Ozempic is FDA-approved since 2017 to treat type 2 diabetes. However, doctors also prescribe Ozempic for weight management.

Both drugs are taken as a once-weekly injection, and signal the pancreas to release insulin, which in turn lowers blood sugar. This effect can help people with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels.¹

These medications have an additional effect: they signalthe feeling of fullness to the brain. As a result, people taking them eat less and lose weight.

Many people were taking Ozempic for this “off-label” effect. Then, in 2021 Novo Nordisk received FDA approval to market the drug at a different dosage as a weight loss medication. They market this second use of the drug under the name Weygovy. And in 2024 the FDA approved Wegovy to lower cardiovascular risk in overweight and obese adults with established heart disease.

The drug Mounjaro is the compound tirzepatide, another GLP-1, sold by the pharmaceutical giant Lilly. It works via the same mechanism as semaglutide.²

Studies have found that these drugs result in weight loss for the majority of users.^1,2 However, both drugs come with a litany of side effects, including nausea, constipation, vomiting, heartburn, gas, headache, and dizziness.

Additionally, drug trials revealed that even the intended effect, weight loss, can cause serious harm.

Synopsis

Ozempic (semaglutide) a glucagon-like peptide-1 drug was first approved for managing Type 2 Diabetes. Weygovy (semaglutide), and Moujaro (tirzepatide) are also GLP-1 drugs– like Ozempic, they cause weight loss by signaling the feeling of fullness to the brain.

A Monstrous Discovery

The discovery of Ozempic and Wegovy, both medications based on the hormone GLP-1, has an intriguing link to the venom of the Gila monster, a venomous lizard. GLP-1 is a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels by enhancing insulin secretion. Researchers found that the Gila monster produces a hormone called exendin-4 in its saliva, which is remarkably similar to human GLP-1 but has a longer duration of action in the body.

This discovery led to the development of exenatide, the first medication derived from exendin-4. Exenatide mimics the action of human GLP-1 but does not degrade as quickly, making it effective for longer periods. This breakthrough opened the door for further research and development of GLP-1 receptor agonists, leading to the creation of semaglutide, the active ingredient in both Ozempic and Wegovy. These drugs have since been used effectively for managing type 2 diabetes and for weight loss by utilizing the body’s natural systems for regulating appetite and insulin secretion, inspired by a naturally occurring hormone in Gila monster venom.

Losing Weight, Losing Muscle, Losing Bone

Studies of semaglutide and tirzepatide found that participants who received the once weekly injection were likely to lose weight. These studies also analyzed the proportion of weight loss from fat mass, regional visceral fat mass, and lean mass.^1,2,3

The intention of the drug is to reduce body weight, but of course, there are many parts of your body that you wouldn't want to lose! Lean mass is one of them. This category includes muscle, bone, and bodily fluids. In trials, nearly 40% of the mass lost was lean mass.³

This is a fairly predictable outcome. Eating less doesn't just mean getting fewer calories— it also means getting fewer nutrients needed to build muscle and bone. Additionally, most forms of weight loss include some lean mass loss. A major difference between GLP-1 driven weight loss and other methods is the short duration over which users lose weight.

One of the dangers of losing lean mass is sarcopenia, which is the medical term for muscle loss. Sarcopenia is also marked by a reduction in strength and physical function following the loss of muscle mass.

For Savers, sarcopenia is especially dangerous, because of the important role that muscle plays in stimulating bone development, per Wolff’s Law. Losing muscle mass reduces your body's capacity for building bone. That effect is magnified by the potential for reduced physical activity, resulting in a loss of strength and functionality.

Synopsis

GLP-1 drugs lead to a loss of body mass, including as much as 40% lean mass, which includes muscle. Losing muscle can lead to sarcopenia, a reduction in muscle mass that can cause weakness and loss of functionality. Sarcopenia has a negative impact on bone formation.

What Is The Ozempic Face?

Ozempic face was coined by Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, a cosmetic and celebrity dermatologist, since he treated many patients who had saggy skin and a hollowed-out appearance in the face, in addition to more wrinkles and lines.
This is caused by rapid weight loss that reduces skin elastin and collagen, both of which are crucial for structural integrity.

More Dangerous Side Effects

And there are many other serious side effects aside from pancreatitis, kidney problems, increased heart rate, and depression (including suicidal thoughts):

Thyroid cancer

Studies conducted on rodents found that Wegovy and Ozempic caused thyroid cancer. The manufacturer warns that those who have a family history of thyroid cancer or an endocrine system disorder called Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndrome type 2 (MEN 2) should not take these drugs.

Risk of Vision Loss

A just-published study raises concerns about a serious side effect associated with GLP-1 drugs. Research conducted by Massachusetts Eye and Ear and Harvard Medical School suggests a significant link between their use and an increased risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy (NAION), a condition that can lead to sudden and often irreversible vision loss.⁴
NAION, which results from reduced blood flow to the optic nerve, could occur at a higher rate among users of these drugs. Specifically, the study found that patients with type 2 diabetes taking GLP-1 drugs were over four times more likely to develop NAION compared to those using other diabetes medications. The risk was even greater for those using the drug for weight loss, who were more than seven times more likely to suffer from this eye condition. This risk is notably higher in the first year of treatment, with most cases reported within the first 12 months.

What Happens When You Stop These Drugs

A common misconception is that GLP-1 can be taken until the desired weight loss is achieved, and then stopped. However, the drugs only reduce weight while taking them. Once they are stopped, the effect of the drug is halted, and the weight returns.

A study published in the Journal of Pharmacology and Therapeutics examined the impact of stopping semaglutide on 1,961 obese adult participants without diabetes.

The participants underwent either 63 weeks of treatment with semaglutide or a placebo. Researchers monitored participants' weight and cardiovascular risk factors. When the treatment ceased, the study followed up with a year of observation.

The researchers found that participants regained two-thirds of the weight they lost, and their cardiometabolic improvements reverted toward their previous levels.⁵

The post-cessation changes included increased blood sugar levels– since blood sugar control is the primary effect of the GLP-1 drugs– and a related increase in blood pressure.⁵

If losing weight is one of your goals, there are natural ways to pursue it that can help you prioritize your health while achieving sustainable change. You can choose a natural path to weight loss that includes building bone, instead of one that threatens bone health.

Synopsis

Studies of GLP-1 found that participants who used the drug for 63 weeks and then stopped gained back two-thirds of their weight and lost the cardiometabolic improvements they achieved while on the drug. Instead, you can pursue a drug-free path to lasting weight loss that won’t harm your bones.

Natural Ways to Boost GLP-1

If you are trying to lose weight, you can enhance your own production of GLP-1 by consuming certain foods, such as arugula, dark leafy greens, and dark chocolate. They activate specific taste receptors that trigger increased GLP-1 release. Similarly, fiber-rich and polyphenol-rich foods not only support the gut microbiome but also promote GLP-1 secretion. Regular consumption of these foods can help in regulating blood sugar levels as well as achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

Incorporating Lifestyle Factors to Enhance GLP-1

Lifestyle choices play a pivotal role in enhancing GLP-1 levels. Regular physical activity, particularly aerobic and resistance exercises, has been shown to boost GLP-1 secretion, which is crucial in managing appetite and metabolic health, especially in individuals with obesity. Additionally, managing stress and ensuring quality sleep are essential for maintaining optimal GLP-1 production. Practices such as meditation, yoga, and good sleep hygiene can help in enhancing the body’s natural processes.

Mindful Eating and GLP-1

Mindful eating is another effective way to boost GLP-1 response. By paying attention to the act of eating, savoring each bite, and eating slowly, you can enhance the natural release of GLP-1 during meals.⁶ This not only improves digestion but also helps in better blood sugar management and increases satiety, which can be beneficial for weight management.

What This Means To You

At the Save Institute, we understand that losing weight can be a significant challenge. However, we advocate for natural and proven methods that promote sustainable, healthy living. We recommend applying long-term lifestyle changes over quick fixes. By focusing on a balanced diet rich in nutrients, regular physical activity, and holistic health practices, we believe that weight loss can be achieved and maintained. This not only supports overall well-being but also enhances bone health, a healthier, more vibrant life.

The Osteoporosis Reversal Program is designed to give you the tools to get healthier, including building strong, resilient bones. If you need support designing and sticking with a workout routine, try SaveTrainer. Our online video workout platform has everything you need to make regular physical activity a convenient and enjoyable part of your life.

By prioritizing your health and holistically addressing your wellness, you'll adopt strategies and behaviors that have compounding benefits instead of often dangerous side effects. Through a healthy bone-building diet and regular exercise you can reduce your risk of fracture, improve your health, and increase your enjoyment of life.

References

¹ https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183

² https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038

³ https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00125-019-05065-8

⁴ https://www.jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaophthalmology/fullarticle/2820255

⁵ https://dom-pubs.pericles-prod.literatumonline.com/doi/10.1111/dom.14725

⁶ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19875483/