loss drugs lost weight, but a new study found they were moving less, not more.
News
– People taking popular weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound may be losing pounds, but they could also be moving less. Researchers analyzing Fitbit data found that daily step counts and exercise levels dropped after people started these medications, despite successful weight loss. Because the drugs can reduce muscle mass along with fat, the decline in physical activity raises concerns about preserving strength and long-term health.
People with obesity who lost weight while taking popular medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound became significantly less physically active, according to research presented Saturday at ENDO 2026, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting in Chicago, Illinois.
Details
The finding may come as a surprise because many people assume that shedding excess weight naturally makes it easier to move more. However, researchers found the opposite trend among people taking these medications.
Weight Loss Drugs and Muscle Health
The medications studied belong to a class known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. This group includes semaglutide (Ozempic and Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro and Zepbound), liraglutide, and dulaglutide.
Analysis
While these drugs can be highly effective for weight loss, they reduce more than just body fat. They can also contribute to a loss of lean muscle mass, making physical activity especially important for maintaining strength and overall health.
Protecting muscle is a key part of healthy weight loss, explained study leader Sajana Maharjan, M.D., of HSHS St. John’s Hospital in Springfield, Illinois.
Fitbit Data Showed Activity Declines
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