Weight-loss medication linked to muscle loss
The Seattle Times • • health
Key Points:
- GLP-1 weight loss drugs like Wegovy can cause significant muscle loss, with studies showing about 35% of weight lost may come from muscle, which can impact physical strength.
- Experts recommend doctors warn patients about potential muscle loss when prescribing these drugs and suggest incorporating strength training, adequate protein intake, and monitoring muscle mass to prevent excessive muscle wasting.
- Amlodipine, a blood pressure medication, can cause severe gum swelling, fluid retention, and other side effects; patients experiencing these symptoms should consult their physicians about alternative treatments.
- Seborrheic dermatitis, linked to yeast overgrowth on oily skin, can be effectively managed with shampoos containing zinc pyrithione (ZPT), such as original Head & Shoulders, which helps control irritation and inflammation.
- Patients reporting unusual odors or other concerns with medications like bupropion should communicate persistently with their pharmacists or healthcare providers, as product variations or storage issues might affect the medication experience.
