English 
Spanish 
3 min read 
0 comments 
Warning about Ozempic and Mounjaro: care needed to avoid loss of muscle mass during treatment.
Medications such as Ozempic and mounjaro, popular in the treatment of obesity, can lead to loss of muscle mass. Experts warn of the need for strength exercises and adequate protein intake to minimize this side effect.
The fight against obesity, a global problem that affects more than a billion people, has gained new allies with the arrival of drugs such as Ozempic (semaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide).
These drugs, which reduce appetite and promote weight loss, have proven effective in treating obesity, which affects 56% of adults in Brazil, but also raise concerns about the loss of muscle mass.
- South Korea creates super metal that can withstand freezing temperatures of -196°C to extremes of 600°C
- End of labor shortage in agriculture: China to create 'human robot' capable of working as a farmer
- Raindrops and plastic pipes: simple innovation generates clean and sustainable energy and could be essential to supply remote areas
- Lead air pollution caused widespread cognitive decline in Roman-era Europe, study finds
Recent studies indicate that although these medications promote significant weight loss, they can also lead to a considerable reduction in lean mass, which includes muscles, organs, bones and fluids.
Loss of muscle mass not only affects strength and quality of life, but is also associated with an increased risk of mortality.
The importance of medical and nutritional monitoring without Ozempic
Experts emphasize the importance of medical and nutritional monitoring while using these medications.
Adequate protein intake and regular strength training are crucial to minimizing muscle loss and ensuring that weight loss is sustainable in the long term.
“It’s no use just consuming protein and taking whey protein without doing physical activity,” warns endocrinologist Maria Edna de Melo. “You need to do strength exercises, such as weight training, to build muscle.”
The need for protein during treatment with these drugs is about 1,5 grams per kilogram of body weight.
Additionally, doing strength training two to three times a week can reduce lean mass loss from 35% to 20%.
The risks of improper use of Ozempic
Recreational or aesthetic use of these drugs, without proper medical and nutritional guidance, can have catastrophic results. Excessive loss of muscle mass can lead to malnutrition and other serious health problems.
“We have seen many cases of people who use these medications without medical supervision, follow restrictive diets and do not exercise,” warns doctor Cynthia Valério. “The impact on body composition can be devastating.”
Benefits beyond weight loss
Despite the risks, the benefits of these medications in treating obesity are undeniable. Significant weight loss can lead to improvements in metabolic health, such as a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Additionally, studies show that weight loss with these medications can lead to improved muscle quality, even if there is a reduction in the total amount of muscle mass.
A new horizon in the treatment of obesity
Obesity is a complex and multifactorial health problem, with genetic, social, cultural, economic and environmental causes.
The arrival of new drugs such as Ozempic and mounjaro represents a significant advance in the treatment of this disease. However, it is essential that the use of these medications is closely monitored by health professionals to ensure that the benefits outweigh the risks.
According to Novo Nordisk, semaglutide has undergone robust clinical studies involving thousands of patients, demonstrating a reduction effect on lean mass and fat, but with a greater emphasis on reducing body fat. As a result, an increase in the total proportion of lean body mass was observed.
The combination of medication, a balanced diet and exercise remains the best strategy for treating obesity. Novo Nordisk recommends that patients taking semaglutide follow their doctor's instructions, eat healthily and exercise regularly, so that weight loss occurs as safely as possible.
Novo Nordisk A/S. Semaglutide PSUR/PBRER July 18, 2023, version 1.0. Data on file.
