Endocrine Society

Semaglutide-associated muscle loss linked to older age, female sex, and low protein intake

July 18, 2025

Three factors—older age, female sex, and lower protein consumption—were linked to greater muscle mass loss in semaglutide users, according to a small study reported in a press release from the 2025 Endocrine Society annual meeting. Greater muscle mass loss was also linked to reduced improvements in HbA1c.

Study details. Researchers compared lean (muscle) mass data on 40 obese adults over three months: 23 patients were prescribed semaglutide, 17 followed the Healthy Habits for Life diet and lifestyle program.

Results. Patients on semaglutide lost more weight than did participants in the diet and lifestyle program, yet the two groups had a similar percentage of weight loss from muscle. In the semaglutide group, greater muscle mass loss was seen in patients who were older, female, or who ate less protein—and losing more muscle was associated with reduced improvements in HbA1c levels.

Source:

(2025, July 12). Endocrine Society. Consuming more protein may protect patients taking anti-obesity drug from muscle loss [Press release]. https://www.endocrine.org/news-and-advocacy/news-room/endo-annual-meeting/endo-2025-press-releases/haines-press-release