Muscle loss side effect
I’m living proof that the infamous “muscle loss” side effect can be completely mitigated and might be overblown by the popular media.
I (37M) started my weight loss journey with Tirz last summer. I started at 280 lbs. and responded very well in the beginning. I’ve been able to maintain a relatively low dose the whole time (at 7.5mg now). Around the 260 lbs. mark, I decided to get a DEXA scan. I was worried about the feared muscle loss side effect from the medication and wanted a baseline measurement. My plan was to get another scan in 6-8 months or when I hit my goal weight. The scan showed BF% of 35.5% and a lean mass measurement of 165 lbs.
In order to combat the muscle loss, I really tried to focus on strength training in addition to cardio. I also tried to eat as much protein as possible while still in a caloric deficit. While this was really hard due to the incredible effect of Tirz on appetite suppression and food noise reduction, I was able to maintain 0.8-1.0g/lb of protein per day. As the scale number dropped, I noticed my strength increased. I am by no means a body builder and the “weight lifting” I did do was just part of a regular group fitness class (nothing fancy), but still I was able to lift a bit more each week.
This month, I hit my goal weight of 190 lbs. and decided to get the updated DEXA scan (about 7 months after the first scan). The results showed 77 lbs. of total mass lost, BF% of 10%, and lean mass measurement of… 164lbs. One pound! Only dropped one pound of muscle mass this whole time. I was shocked. I thought for sure more of the weight that I’ve shed would’ve been muscle, especially because so many on social media harp on this side effect and discourage people from starting GLP-1.
So, I hope this is inspiring to those who have had concerns about muscle loss or even if you’ve been reluctant to start because of this “side effect.” By focusing on strength and good nutrition, you can totally keep all of your muscle while still losing weight. It truly is a miracle drug, and I hope anyone that’s on the fence give it a go!
Edit: Adding some graphics for ease of interpretation...
One thing I forgot to mention was the visceral fat change. A couple of years ago, I had an ultrasound that showed I had started to develop nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. While I haven't had a repeat test to show any change in that, I'm hoping the reduction in visceral fat has lead to that going away too.