Muscle growth drug ‘could reduce loss of lean tissue’ when using slimming jabs

Experts said large-scale trial was needed and in the meanitime people taking weight-loss drugs ‘should be supported to increase their physical activity, to help maintain muscle mass’. Photograph: ljubaphoto/Getty Images

A drug that promotes muscle growth could significantly reduce the loss of lean body mass when using slimming jabs, research suggests.

While GLP-1 based jabs such as Wegovy and Mounjaro have proved highly effective at helping people who are overweight or obese, experts have warned it is not only fat that is lost. Studies suggest 25-40% of total weight loss is down to a reduction in lean body mass – non-fat components of the body, including muscle.