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Aarhus, Denmark – Weight-loss medication has revolutionized obesity treatment, helping millions achieve significant weight reduction. However, rapid weight loss can sometimes result in muscle loss and an increased risk of osteoporosis. Now, new research suggests that the drug bimagrumab may help mitigate these risks.
A study conducted by Ph.D. student Frederik Duch Bromer and postdoctoral researcher Andreas Lodberg from the Department of Biomedicine at Aarhus University indicates that bimagrumab could preserve muscle mass and enhance bone strength in individuals experiencing rapid weight loss. The findings, published in the Journal of Cachexia, Sarcopenia and Muscle, provide promising insights into the drug’s potential benefits.
Potential Breakthrough for Weight-Loss Patients
“We are the first to study how certain drugs affect bones, and the results show that bimagrumab can increase the amount of bone tissue while building muscle mass. This could be very important for the many people currently taking weight-loss medication,” said the researchers.
Originally developed to treat muscle loss and dysfunction, bimagrumab was later discovered to have fat-burning properties, making it a potential candidate for second-generation weight-loss treatments. The drug’s ability to simultaneously preserve muscle and strengthen bones could make it a game-changer for those undergoing rapid weight reduction.
Osteoporosis: A Growing Concern
Many weight-loss patients experience fluctuations in weight, which can contribute to osteoporosis. Brittle bones increase the risk of fractures, leading to high medical costs and reduced quality of life. The study’s findings indicate that bimagrumab not only prevents bone and muscle loss but actively promotes the formation of new bone tissue.
“Bimagrumab slightly increases the calcium content in bones and promotes the formation of new bone in what we call the shell (cortex) of long bones,” explained Bromer. “We also saw a significant build-up of bone tissue around the femoral head, which is a common site for fractures, particularly in older adults.”
Another positive finding is that bimagrumab does not appear to affect blood composition. Similar drugs have previously been linked to increased red blood cell production, raising concerns about the risk of blood clots. However, in this study, no such side effects were observed.
Further Research Needed
The study was conducted on mice with both osteoporosis and reduced muscle mass. While the results are promising, the drug is now undergoing further testing in several phase 2 clinical trials. Lodberg emphasized that more research is necessary to fully understand bimagrumab’s long-term effects.
“Our study shows that bimagrumab has a positive effect in many areas, but we also have indications that the drug may have other side effects. We need further research to get a clearer picture of its implications for patients,” said Lodberg.
Bromer and Lodberg hope to continue their research to investigate both the potential benefits and any possible risks associated with bimagrumab. If proven safe and effective, the drug could be a significant step forward in addressing the challenges of rapid weight loss and its impact on muscle and bone health.
Disclaimer: The findings in this study are based on animal research, and further clinical trials are necessary to determine the safety and efficacy of bimagrumab in humans. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers before considering any new medication or treatment options.
