GLP-1 and Osteoporosis

Posted by mikalleb @mikalleb, 3 days ago

Has anyone been on GLP-1 and been diagnosed with Osteoporosis? I have been on GLP-1 for almost 2 years. Have lost 50 pounds. My osteopenia has become porosis since DEXA two years ago. I do not want to stop GLP-1, so what should I be doing?

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This may be of some guidance
Mechanism of GLP-1
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism. It works through several mechanisms:
Enhances Insulin Secretion: GLP-1 stimulates the pancreas to release insulin in response to food intake, helping to lower blood sugar levels.
Slows Gastric Emptying: It delays the emptying of the stomach, which helps to control appetite and reduce food intake.
Reduces Appetite: GLP-1 acts on the brain to promote feelings of fullness, further aiding in weight management.
Impact on Osteoporosis
The relationship between GLP-1 medications and osteoporosis is complex and varies based on the patient's health status:
In Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes
Potential Protective Effect: Research suggests that GLP-1 medications may lower the risk of osteoporosis in patients with type 2 diabetes. Studies indicate that these patients have a reduced incidence of osteoporosis compared to those not using GLP-1 medications.
In Individuals without Diabetes
Increased Risk: Conversely, for individuals without diabetes, GLP-1 medications may be associated with a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. This is particularly concerning for those who experience significant weight loss while on these medications, as rapid weight loss can negatively impact bone density.
Summary of Findings
Patient Group Effect of GLP-1 on Osteoporosis Risk
With Type 2 Diabetes Lower risk of osteoporosis
Without Diabetes Higher risk of osteoporosis
In conclusion, while GLP-1 medications are effective for managing blood sugar and promoting weight loss, their impact on bone health varies significantly between individuals with and without diabetes.

Sources:
epicresearch.org
Frontiers

REPLY

I think that since you are losing weight there is less weight on your bones, so they are not being signaled to build more bones.

REPLY
Profile picture for osteopatient2026 @osteopatient2026

This may be of some guidance
Mechanism of GLP-1
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in glucose metabolism. It works through several mechanisms:
Enhances Insulin Secretion: GLP-1 stimulates the pancreas to release insulin in response to food intake, helping to lower blood sugar levels.
Slows Gastric Emptying: It delays the emptying of the stomach, which helps to control appetite and reduce food intake.
Reduces Appetite: GLP-1 acts on the brain to promote feelings of fullness, further aiding in weight management.
Impact on Osteoporosis
The relationship between GLP-1 medications and osteoporosis is complex and varies based on the patient's health status:
In Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes
Potential Protective Effect: Research suggests that GLP-1 medications may lower the risk of osteoporosis in patients with type 2 diabetes. Studies indicate that these patients have a reduced incidence of osteoporosis compared to those not using GLP-1 medications.
In Individuals without Diabetes
Increased Risk: Conversely, for individuals without diabetes, GLP-1 medications may be associated with a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. This is particularly concerning for those who experience significant weight loss while on these medications, as rapid weight loss can negatively impact bone density.
Summary of Findings
Patient Group Effect of GLP-1 on Osteoporosis Risk
With Type 2 Diabetes Lower risk of osteoporosis
Without Diabetes Higher risk of osteoporosis
In conclusion, while GLP-1 medications are effective for managing blood sugar and promoting weight loss, their impact on bone health varies significantly between individuals with and without diabetes.

Sources:
epicresearch.org
Frontiers

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@osteopatient2026

Thanks, very interesting!! Easy to understand and informative.

I am not using GLP-1's and I don't have diabetes, but the info about "rapid weight loss" was something I suspected as I have done that more than a few times and there are no other cases of OP in my family.

Cheers!

REPLY
Profile picture for beanieone @beanieone

@osteopatient2026

Thanks, very interesting!! Easy to understand and informative.

I am not using GLP-1's and I don't have diabetes, but the info about "rapid weight loss" was something I suspected as I have done that more than a few times and there are no other cases of OP in my family.

Cheers!

Jump to this post

@beanieone
It was in reply to the original poster mikalleb
https://connect.mayoclinic.org/member/00-17d7c0de708312e6352192/
GLP-1 and Osteoporosis

REPLY

I know nothing but actually keep wondering if microdosing GLP1s - I am thin - would help bone density because I could then finally get off sugar and carbs (I don't eat that many but haven't been able to cut them out entirely tho I know they boost the even osteoclasts and subdue our needed osteoblasts)

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