cardiac effects weight loss drugs

Unexpected Cardiac Effects of Weight-Loss Drug Unveiled in New Research

Overview of the Study

According to a new study by the University of Alberta published in JACC: Basic to Translational Science, popular weight-loss drugs capturing attention for their effectiveness in reducing waistlines may also lead to the shrinking of the human heart and other muscles. The researchers caution against potential long-term health risks associated with these medications.

Study Author's Insight

Jason Dyck's Perspective on Drug Risks and Benefits

Jason Dyck, senior author of the study, professor of pediatrics in the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry, and member of the Women and Children's Health Research Institute, emphasizes that the benefits of these drugs likely outweigh the risks for those prescribed them.

"However, individuals using these drugs without meeting the eligibility criteria or facing significant health risks may experience a different balance of risks and benefits, which warrants greater awareness."

Investigating Skeletal Muscle Loss

Dyck and his research team aimed to investigate the underlying causes of skeletal muscle loss, a reported side effect of the widely used weight-loss drug Ozempic.

Initially developed as a treatment for adults with type 2 diabetes to regualte blood sugar levels, Ozempic, or semaglutide, has gained attention for its efficacy as an anti-obesity medication, along with other drugs in its class.

Research Findings

Observations in Mice and Human Heart Cells

Through experiments conducted on mice, the researchers observed a reduction in heart muscle in both obese and lean subjects. These systemic effects were further validated using cultured human heart cells.

Dyck, the Canada Research Chair in Molecular Medicine and director of the Cardiovascular Research Center, noted that his team did not detect any adverse functional impacts on the hearts of mice with reduced size. Consequently, they do not anticipate significant health effects in humans. However, he cautioned that prolonged exposure or certain types of cardiac stress might reveal effects not evident under resting conditions.

Implications for Non-Obese Users

With a rising number of non-obese individuals and those without cardiovascular disease using this medication, we advocate for detailed assessments of cardiac structure and function in existing and previous trials.

Muscle Loss and Its Health Consequences

The Role of Muscle in Overall Health

Dyck's research follows a commentary featured in the November edition of The Lancet, authored by an international team from the University of Alberta, McMaster University, and Louisiana State University, which highlighted studies suggesting that up to 40% of weight lost through weight-loss drugs may come from muscle mass.

Carla Prado, a nutrition researcher at the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences and lead author of the commentary, emphasizes that this level of muscle loss in much greater than what is usually seen with calorie-restricted diets or normal aging, potentially leading to long-term health complications such as weakened immunity, heightened infection risk, and impaired wound healing.

Muscle's Vital Functions

"Muscle serves far more purposes than aiding movement or lifting objects; it is a vital organ that contributes significantly to our overall health," she explains.

An example of muscle's importance is its role in storing key amino acids, which are used by the body to heal and stay strong during time of illness, stress, or injury. It also helps regulate blood sugar, a factor in diabetes prevention.

Myokines and Immune System Benfits

Prado also points out that muscle produces specific molecules known as myokines, which send signals to other areas of the body to aid in fighting infections and strengthening the immune system.

"Preserving muscle is crucial, particularly during weight-loss treatments, as it's not only about maintaining strength but also about ensuring the resilience and overall health of the body."

Impact on Sarcopenic Obesity and Further Research

The authors of the commentary argue that weight-loss induced muscle loss may further aggravate conditions like sarcopenic obesity—characterized by excess body fat and reduced skeletal muscle—which can contribute to adverse health effects, including cardiovascular disease and elevated mortality rates.

While the short-term impact of muscle loss on strength and functionality remains uncertain, the commentary advocates for further research into how reductions in muscle mass could potentially improve muscle mass and composition.

Preserving Muscle During Weight Loss

Importance of Nutrition and Exercise

To maintain muscle strength during weight loss, Prado emphasizes the importance of focusing on two key factors: nutrition and exercise. Proper nutrition involves consuming adequate high-quality protein, essential vitamins and minerals, and other nutrients vital for muscle building. In some cases, protein supplements may be necessary to ensure the body receives the required nutrients.

Resistance Training for Muscle Protection

"Exercise is equally essential, with a focus on resistance training like weightlifting or using resistance bands," explained Prado, who was recently named Canada Research Chair in Integrative Nutrition, Body Composition, and Energy Metabolism. "This type of exercise helps protect muscle from degradation during weight loss and maintains strength."

She further recommends that individuals using weight-loss medication adhere to a well-rounded regimen that incorporates sufficient protein intake alongside resistance training.

"By reducing muscle loss, this approach helps people lose fat, thereby maximizing the health benefits of the treatment and ensuring they retain strength."

Source

Stay informed about the health implications of weight-loss medications. Read more research and consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.