(NewsNation) — Losing muscle mass isn’t the only potential side effect of taking weight loss medications such as Ozempic: Brittle bones are another.
According to a study published in the journal JAMA Network, bones can become less dense with rapid weight loss, especially in people older than 65 and predisposed to osteoporosis.
The study followed 195 adults with obesity for one year after an initial eight-week low-calorie diet.
Orthopedic surgeon Rick Lehman at the US Center for Sports Medicine told NewsNation local affiliate KTVI that while these medications are popular for weight loss, they often reduce muscle mass rather than just fat, potentially increasing the percentage of body fat despite a lower overall weight.
This could lead to a paradox where individuals are thinner but have a higher body fat percentage.
Bone loss is a common concern during weight loss, potentially increasing the risk of fractures. The study measured bone mineral density at the hip, spine and forearm — key areas for assessing fracture risk.
What do doctors recommend to combat muscle and bone loss?
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen found that participants who combined exercise with the drug liraglutide lost the most weight and maintained their bone density.
Exercise alone led to weight loss similar to the use of liraglutide alone but with increased lean mass and preserved bone density.
People on these drugs should do resistance training and maintain physical activity, especially as they age, and intake more protein.
Apart from muscle and bone concerns, Lehman said other side effects include nausea, vomiting, constipation and the necessity of diet management.
He stresses the importance of eating lean proteins, high-fiber foods and avoiding simple carbohydrates to prevent adverse effects on blood sugar levels.
NewsNation affiliate KTVI contributed to this report.