Balancing the risks of GLP-1 treatment in older adults: Is muscle loss with obesity a concern?

GLP-1 receptor agonists may lead to 15-25% weight loss over 12-24 months but raise concerns about muscle mass loss.

• Cessation of GLP-1 receptor agonist treatment often results in significant weight regain.
• Up to two-thirds of users may discontinue treatment within a year due to high costs and side effects.
• Sarcopenic obesity, characterized by high body fat and low muscle mass, is prevalent in 10-20% of older adults.
• Weight cycling from repeated treatment cessation could worsen fat mass gain while decreasing muscle mass.
• There is a need for awareness and preventive strategies regarding the risks of sarcopenic obesity in older adults using GLP-1 receptor agonists.

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