Study Shows Experimental Drug Could Preserve Muscle Mass in GLP-1 Weight-Loss Users
A new study published in Nature Medicine found that pairing GLP-1 weight-loss drugs with an experimental antibody called apitegromab allowed patients to retain roughly 55% more muscle mass than those on GLP-1s alone. The trial involved 102 overweight or obese participants who all received tirzepatide for 24 weeks, with half also receiving monthly apitegromab infusions. The findings are significant because GLP-1 drugs are estimated to cause 25–40% of weight loss from lean body mass, which supports metabolism, strength, and healthy aging.
Researchers have published results in Nature Medicine showing that apitegromab, an experimental myostatin-blocking antibody, can help GLP-1 drug users preserve lean muscle mass during weight loss. In a 24-week clinical trial of 102 overweight or obese participants, all received weekly injections of tirzepatide while half also received monthly apitegromab infusions. Both groups lost comparable amounts of weight, but the apitegromab group retained approximately 55% more lean mass. Those receiving apitegromab also showed slightly greater grip strength and performed better on a leg strength and endurance test. Apitegromab is not FDA-approved and is currently administered only via intravenous infusion; it is also being investigated as a treatment for spinal muscular atrophy. Researchers are calling for further studies to assess whether the drug can address sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass. In the meantime, experts continue to recommend resistance training and adequate protein intake as accessible strategies for preserving muscle during weight loss.
What's missing
The study involved only 102 participants over 24 weeks, which limits the ability to draw conclusions about long-term safety, durability of muscle preservation, or effects across diverse populations. The article does not report whether the trial was randomized or blinded, nor does it address the cost or accessibility of apitegromab should it eventually receive regulatory approval.
What different sources said
- ReutersCenter
Some US employers to drop coverage of GLP-1 obesity drugs in 2027 as use increases
- New York PostRight
New drug could fight ‘Ozempic butt’ — and some other unwelcome side effects of GLP-1 drugs
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