MUSCLE MASS LOSS DURING TREATMENT WITH GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS

Authors

  • Bianca Oliveira Bomfim
  • Karine Harumi de Castro Shimasaki
  • João Gabriel Garrote Vasconcelos
  • Luísa Campos Castro
  • Maria Clara Neiva Fernandes
  • Isabella de Oliveira e Castro
  • Francisco Magela de Oliveira Franco Filho
  • Brunna Leonel Machado
  • Natalia Ramos de Carvalho Cardoso
  • Naiara Guimarães Barroso

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63330/sasciencesv6n2-296

Keywords:

Body composition, GLP-1 receptor agonists, Obesity, Sarcopenia, Skeletal muscle

Abstract

Treatment with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists promotes weight loss but may be accompanied by a reduction in lean mass, raising concerns about the preservation of muscle health. This narrative review aimed to analyze changes in lean and muscle mass during treatment in adults with overweight or obesity, considering potential functional consequences and monitoring strategies. Clinical trials, body composition analyses, systematic reviews, and consensus statements identified through online scientific sources were analyzed. The synthesis indicated that weight loss occurs predominantly through fat reduction, although it may also involve an absolute loss of lean mass. However, this change does not necessarily correspond to an equivalent loss of skeletal muscle or independently establish a diagnosis of sarcopenia. Heterogeneity in assessment methods and the limited availability of functional evaluations hinder conclusions about long-term muscular effects. Nutritional monitoring, adequate protein intake, and resistance exercise are relevant strategies for muscle preservation. It is concluded that treatment assessment should integrate body composition, strength, and physical function, particularly in vulnerable individuals. Long-term studies are needed to clarify the clinical significance of the observed changes.

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References

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Published

2026-11-06

How to Cite

Bomfim, B. O. ., Shimasaki, K. H. de C. ., Vasconcelos, J. G. G. ., Castro, L. C. ., Fernandes, M. C. N. ., de Oliveira e Castro, I. ., Franco Filho, F. M. de O. ., Machado, B. L. ., Cardoso, N. R. de C. ., & Barroso, N. G. . (2026). MUSCLE MASS LOSS DURING TREATMENT WITH GLP-1 RECEPTOR AGONISTS . South American Sciences, 6(2), e26526. https://doi.org/10.63330/sasciencesv6n2-296

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 2 (2026): South American Sciences

Section

Artigos

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