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Semaglutide's Impact on Weight Loss, Fat Mass, and Muscle Function in Patients with Obesity: A Novel Study

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— 1 min read

A groundbreaking study, published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, has shed new light on the efficacy of semaglutide in promoting weight loss and improving muscle function in patients with obesity. The SEMALEAN study, led by researchers at University Hospital Rouen, enrolled 115 patients with obesity between February 2022 and November 2024. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of semaglutide on lean mass, muscle function, and metabolic adaptations.

Key Takeaways:

  • The SEMALEAN study found significant weight loss in patients treated with semaglutide (2.4 mg), with mean reductions of 10% at 7 months and 13% at 12 months.
  • Total fat mass decreased by 14% at 7 months and 18% at 12 months, while lean mass initially declined but stabilized thereafter.
  • Handgrip strength improved significantly by +4.5 kg at 12 months, and the prevalence of sarcopenic obesity decreased from 49% at baseline to 33% at 12 months.
  • The study revealed greater weight and fat mass loss in women, with patients having type 2 diabetes or prior GLP-1 analogue use showing attenuated responses.
  • Patients with a history of bariatric surgery exhibited the most pronounced reductions in body composition parameters.
  • The findings of the study underscore the importance of a comprehensive approach to obesity management, addressing not only weight loss but also functional and metabolic adaptation.

Statistics:

  • 115 patients with obesity were enrolled in the SEMALEAN study.
  • 106 patients (68.9% female) completed the study.
  • Mean BMI at baseline was 46.3 kg/m.
  • Mean weight loss at 7 months was 10%.
  • Mean weight loss at 12 months was 13%.
  • Total fat mass decreased by 14% at 7 months and 18% at 12 months.
  • Lean mass initially declined by -3 kg at 7 months but stabilized thereafter.
  • Handgrip strength improved by +4.5 kg at 12 months.
  • Prevalence of sarcopenic obesity decreased from 49% at baseline to 33% at 12 months.

Sources:

  • "Impact of Semaglutide on fat mass, lean mass and muscle function in patients with obesity: The SEMALEAN study" by Thomas Demangeat et al., published in Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 2025.
  • Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 2025, Wiley, 111 River St, Hoboken 07030-5774, NJ, USA.
  • University Hospital Rouen, Department of Nutrition and CIC-CRB 1404, CSO Rouen Normandie, Rouen, France.

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