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Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report
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Multidisciplinary Approach to Obesity Management: A Case Report

Published on: May 30, 2025

Preventive Strategies to Reduce Sarcopenia Risk During GLP-1-Based Anti-Obesity Therapy

Andrej Belančić1, Kristina Skroče2,3, Elvira Meni Maria Gkrinia4

  • 1Department of Basic and Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Rijeka, 51000 Rijeka, Croatia.

Journal of Clinical Medicine
|August 13, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) effectively treat obesity but may cause muscle loss. Strategies like exercise and adequate protein intake can help preserve muscle mass during GLP-1 RA therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Geriatrics
  • Sports Medicine

Background:

  • Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are effective for obesity treatment.
  • Weight loss with GLP-1 RAs can lead to reductions in fat-free mass, risking sarcopenia.
  • Sarcopenia, the loss of muscle mass and strength, is a concern in older adults and those with chronic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review evidence and strategies for preserving muscle health during GLP-1 RA therapy.
  • To identify patients at higher risk for muscle loss.
  • To provide practical, evidence-informed recommendations for clinicians.

Main Methods:

  • Narrative review of current literature on GLP-1 RAs, obesity, sarcopenia, exercise, and nutrition.
  • Identification of risk factors for sarcopenia in patients undergoing anti-obesity treatment.
  • Synthesis of preventive and management strategies.

Main Results:

  • Higher-risk patients include older adults, frail individuals, those with low muscle mass/strength, sarcopenic obesity, CKD, low activity, or rapid weight loss.
  • Preventive strategies include baseline assessment, resistance/multicomponent exercise, adequate protein, nutritional support, and monitoring.
  • Individualized treatment pacing and dose adjustment may be necessary for high-risk patients.

Conclusions:

  • A risk-stratified, multidisciplinary approach is recommended to preserve muscle mass and function.
  • Combining GLP-1 RA therapy with muscle-preserving strategies can maintain cardiometabolic benefits.
  • Further research is needed, particularly GLP-1 RA-specific trials, to refine these recommendations.
Keywords:
body compositionexercise therapyglucagon-likeobesitysarcopenia

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