GLP-1-derived therapies and risk of sarcopenia: myth or reality? - PubMed
3 hours ago
- #sarcopenia
- #muscle mass
- #GLP-1 receptor agonist
- GLP-1-based therapies significantly reduce body weight, improving outcomes in type 2 diabetes and obesity.
- Concerns exist about excessive skeletal muscle mass (SMM) loss leading to sarcopenia, potentially affecting the benefit/risk balance.
- Studies show mixed results: some report excessive SMM loss, while others suggest improved muscle quality (less myosteatosis).
- Controversy arises from misinterpretation of body composition changes and lack of rigorous studies on SMM, muscle function, and structure.
- Current evidence is insufficient to conclude whether GLP-1 therapies are detrimental or beneficial for skeletal muscle.
- Most results are reassuring, but further research is needed, especially in high-risk groups like older patients.
- The overall benefit/risk ratio of GLP-1 therapies remains positive for most patients with type 2 diabetes or obesity.
- Recent data suggest muscle mass reduction with GLP-1RAs is not disproportionate compared to other weight loss therapies.
- Improvements in muscle quality (reduced fat infiltration) may offset concerns about muscle strength and function.
- Further studies are required, particularly in populations at higher risk of sarcopenia (older or frail patients).