"These medications can be revolutionary for managing type 2 diabetes and aiding in significant weight loss, which in turn can reduce the risk of events like a heart attack or stroke," saysDr. Zeeshan Khan, MD, chief of geriatrics at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center. "However, they are not without risks, especially for older adults."
"These side effects can lead to dehydration and imbalances in essential body salts, or electrolytes, more quickly in seniors," he explains. "There's also a risk of low blood sugar—hypoglycemia—if these medications are taken with other diabetes drugs like insulin."
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What Geriatricians Want Patients Over 60 To Do About Muscle Loss on Ozempic
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"Understanding this balance of benefits and risks allows us to make an informed, shared decision about whether this treatment aligns with your personal health goals and quality of life," Dr. Khan says.
"Lean mass is everything in your body that isn’t fat, including your muscles, organs and bones," he explains.
Your primary doctor or geriatrician, who can check your muscle mass, review your diet and make personalized recommendations.A registered dietitian, who can help you consume the calories and protein you need to manage your weight without sacrificing muscle mass.A certified personal trainer or physical therapist who can design safe and progressive strength programs (Dr. Hutz suggests looking for someone experienced with older adults).
Related: Zepbound vs. Wegovy: Which Weight Loss Medication Is Better Right Now?
"The GLP-1 drugs work largely by reducing appetite and slowing the digestion process, leading to a decrease in caloric intake," explains Dr. Marzena Gieniusz, MD, a geriatrician in the Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at Northwell Health.
"First, with a reduced appetite, it becomes challenging to consume enough protein, which is the essential building block for muscle," Dr. Khan says. "If your protein intake is too low, your body will start to pull from your muscle reserves."
Related: Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro—Is There a Difference Between These Medications? Here’s What Experts Say
Why Extra Muscle Loss Matters to People Over 60
Decreased hormones (like testosterone and growth hormone)Nerve damageDecreased activityPoor nutritionChronic inflammation and conditions (like diabetes, cancer and kidney disease)
"For individuals over 60, losing muscle mass is not just about a loss of strength; it's about a loss of independence and resilience," Dr. Khan states.
Related: The Surprising Habit That Speeds up Muscle Loss After 60
Resistance training is your best line of defense, Dr. Khan says. "You need to send a clear signal to your body that your muscles are essential," he reveals. "I recommend engaging in resistance training at least three times per week."
Be sure to start slow. There's no need to go from 0 minutes of exercise to benching 60 pounds in one day.
A personal trainer can help.
2. Log cardio and other movement throughout the day
"Walking, light cycling, gardening or gentle yoga helps maintain muscle and supports overall health," Dr. Hutz says. "Try to get at least 30 minutes most days, breaking it into shorter sessions if needed. Consistency matters more than intensity."
3. Get enough protein
"Work with a qualified professional on ensuring a reasonable calorie intake, and set reasonable weight loss goals without losing too much weight too quickly," she recommends.
Related: The One Strength Move Everyone Over 60 Should Do for a Longer Life, According to Trainers
Sources:
Dr. Zeeshan Khan, MD, chief of geriatrics at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical CenterDr. Marzena Gieniusz, MD, a geriatrician in the Division of Geriatrics and Palliative Medicine at Northwell Health (New Hyde Park, N.Y.)Dr. Erika Hutz, DO, a geriatrician at Endeavor HealthSemaglutide impacts skeletal muscle to a similar extent as caloric restriction in mice with diet-induced obesity. The Journal of Physiology.Effects of Semaglutide on Muscle Structure and Function in the SLIM LIVER Study. Clinical Infectious Diseases.Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults with Overweight or Obesity. NEJM. Changes in lean body mass with glucagon-like peptide-1-based therapies and mitigation strategies. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism.Hence then, the article about muscle loss on ozempic is a real problem here s what geriatricians warn patients over 60 to do immediately was published today ( ) and is available on Parade ( Saudi Arabia ) The editorial team at PressBee has edited and verified it, and it may have been modified, fully republished, or quoted. You can read and follow the updates of this news or article from its original source.
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