A large new study has raised serious concerns over the side effects of weight loss injections, showing that they can cause significant loss of muscle mass – including in the face.
These drugs, such as Mounjaro and Wegovy, are used by more than 2.5 million people in the UK and have shown strong results in reducing body weight, even by up to 20% in obese patients. However, analysis of data from thousands of patients has found that around two-thirds of users also lose significant muscle mass.
According to experts, this muscle loss is directly related to the phenomenon called "Ozempic face", where the face appears emptier, with prominent cheekbones and a thinner appearance.
The study, which will be presented at a major medical conference in San Francisco, warns that users should take measures to protect their muscles, as their loss can lead to serious health consequences, including an increased risk of life-threatening falls.
Dr. Charlotte Suetta, a specialist in geriatric medicine, emphasizes that treatment should be accompanied by muscle-preserving strategies, such as resistance exercises and adequate protein intake.
In an analysis of 36 studies of weight loss drugs, it was found that patients consistently lost more muscle mass than expected. This is consistent with previous findings showing that many people regain weight within two years of stopping treatment, often faster than those who follow traditional diets.
These drugs, known as GLP-1, work by mimicking hormones released after eating, reducing appetite. However, experts stress that users should receive advice on nutrition and physical activity to avoid muscle loss.
Aesthetic changes in the face are not directly related to the drug itself, but to the speed and manner of weight loss. When weight is lost quickly, the body burns not only fat, but also muscles and supporting tissues of the face.
In some cases, this can lead to a weakened appearance and an increased risk of physical weakness, loss of bone density and falls, especially in the elderly. For this reason, experts warn that these treatments may not always be appropriate for this age group.
Maintaining muscle mass is essential not only for appearance, but also for mobility, independence, and quality of life.
Experts recommend strengthening exercises and at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week, according to standard guidelines.
Meanwhile, GLP-1 drugs are changing the way obesity is treated, offering results that were previously difficult to achieve with diet and exercise alone. However, they can cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, and in rare cases are associated with more serious problems such as pancreatitis.
Despite the risks, experts estimate that for most patients the benefits outweigh the consequences – but only if used carefully and under medical supervision. /GazetaExpress/
t7 live
