GLP-1 Agonist Drugs and Bone Health
When it comes to treating obesity, type 2 diabetes, and other chronic health conditions, GLP-1 agonist drugs—such as Ozempic, Zepbound, and Wegovy—have been a game changer for literally millions of Americans.
However, as with any medication, these drugs can deliver unwelcome side effects. A recent study presented at the 2026 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons annual meeting in March has raised the possibility of new ones.
Link Between GLP-1 Use and Bone Issues
The research found a link between GLP-1 use and increased risk of bone issues, including osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones) and osteomalacia (soft bones). The study also found a link between GLP-1 use and heightened risk of gout, a type of arthritis that causes pain and swelling in the joints.
The lead study author became interested in whether GLP-1s might affect bone and other connective tissue after some of his patients “developed serious tendon tears following relatively minor injuries,” according to NBC News.
Limitations of the Study
While the study found a link between GLP-1 use and bone issues, it had several limitations. The study was observational in nature, meaning it looked at correlation…not causation. It also relied on medical records alone, which means it assumed that all patients who were prescribed GLP-1s, as noted in their medical records, were actually taking the drug.
Moreover, the study didn’t take into account factors that commonly impact bone health, like exercise habits, nutritional habits, and other lifestyle factors. It also didn’t account for certain endocrine conditions, cancers, alcohol use, family history, and steroid use—all of which can also play a role in bone health.
Link Between GLP-1 Use and Worsened Bone Health
Other research supports the notion that these drugs may be linked with declining bone health. Taking GLP-1s can indeed decrease bone density for some people. However, this decrease in bone density is likely due to the volume and rate at which people lose weight while on these drugs—and not anything specific to the medication itself.
When you take GLP-1s, there can be rapid weight loss which means there is less load being carried around on the skeleton. Bone formation or strengthening is improved with load to the skeletal system, so losing weight decreases the regular load on the bones overall.
Protecting Bone Health While Taking a GLP-1
Resistance training is important for pretty much everyone—and that includes folks on GLP-1s. One of its many benefits is that it’s been shown to improve bone density, which can be a helpful strategy to bolster bone health when you’re on a GLP-1.
A common side effect of GLP-1s is appetite suppression, which can sometimes lead people to follow a really low calorie diet. Calorie restriction can suppress bone growth and increase the risk of fractures, according to research.
Protein is often touted for its muscle-building benefits, but it’s also vital for bone health, as it helps to build bone mass. The recommended dietary allowance for adults is 0.8 grams of protein per kilograms of bodyweight a day—a general guideline that Dr. Laudenslager also suggests for people taking GLP-1s.
Rapid weight loss can be harmful for bone health, so to mitigate this risk, strive for a more gradual reduction in pounds. The recommended rate of weight loss depends on your starting weight, but as a general rule, aim for a loss of 1-2 pounds per week.
