Ozempic may trigger muscle loss—Higher protein intake could help offset it

Experts say more protein may prevent muscle loss in Ozempic users

As drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy rise in popularity for rapid weight loss, a new concern is emerging: muscle loss. A recent study presented at ENDO 2025, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting, suggests that individuals—particularly older women—taking semaglutide may lose more lean mass if their protein intake is too low.

Muscle loss is a known side effect of fast weight reduction, regardless of the method. But this small, early-stage study has linked low protein diets to greater lean mass loss among those using GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic.

“Our data suggest that higher protein intake—specifically among participants on semaglutide—may help prevent some loss of lean mass,” said Dr. Melanie Haines, study author from Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School.

What the study found

The study followed 40 adults with obesity, of which 23 received semaglutide while the remaining 17 followed a diet and lifestyle program.

• After 3 months, the semaglutide group lost 6.3% of body weight, compared to 2.5% in the lifestyle group.
• Both groups lost similar percentages of muscle mass.
• In the semaglutide group, older age, female sex, and lower protein intake were all associated with greater muscle loss.
• Those with greater lean mass loss also had poorer improvements in blood sugar levels.

This highlights the risk that calorie deficits—common during weight loss—can lead to insufficient protein consumption, which is essential for preserving muscle and maintaining metabolic health.

How to reduce muscle loss on weight-loss drugs

Though the study was not a randomized controlled trial and hasn’t been peer-reviewed yet, the results support existing science on the benefits of protein for muscle preservation.

According to Dr. Richard Siegel, endocrinologist and co-director of the Diabetes and Lipid Center at Tufts Medical Center, patients on GLP-1 medications should:

• Consume 1.2–1.6 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight
  (About 60–120 grams daily depending on your weight)
• High-protein foods include:
• Lean meats, poultry, and seafood
• Eggs
• Legumes like beans, lentils, and peas
• Soy products
• Nuts and seeds

Exercise also matters

Resistance training—such as weight lifting, squats, or push-ups—can further reduce the risk of muscle loss. A 2021 study found that resistance exercise helped preserve lean mass in people taking liraglutide, another GLP-1 drug.

“Medication alone, without smart physical activity and smart nutrition, puts patients at risk,” said Siegel.

Those on Ozempic who experience nausea or reduced appetite may struggle to eat enough. Experts recommend starting with a low dose and increasing gradually to minimize side effects and help patients maintain food intake.

The bottom line

Muscle loss is a growing concern for users of Ozempic and other GLP-1 weight-loss medications. While the science is still evolving, one thing is clear: higher protein intake and resistance training may play a key role in preserving lean muscle mass—and protecting overall health.

Stay informed. Stay ahead.

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