Study finds that GLP-1 medications are linked to the risk of bone fractures in older diabetics

A study published in February in the Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism found that older adults with type 2 diabetes who started using GLP-1 were 11% more likely to develop fragility fractures than those taking other diabetes medications.

Dr. Michal Kasher-Meron, an endocrinologist at the Meir Medical Center in Israel and the lead author of the study, said that the relative increase may seem small, but it carries weight for a large percentage of patients. Population at risk.

“Both advanced age and type 2 diabetes are independent risk factors for fragility fractures,” Kasher-Meron told Fox News Digital. “This is a population that deserves special attention.”

A new study suggests that older adults with type 2 diabetes who take GLP-1 medications may face an increased risk of fractures. (Istock)

Kasher-Meron noted that fragility fractures are breaks caused by simple falls or routine activity, are often associated with osteoporosis, and can lead to hospitalization, loss of independence, and even increased mortality in older people.

The study followed more than 46,000 adults aged 65 and older for about three years. After adjustments, GLP-1 users had a modest but statistically significant increase in fracture risk.

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Previous research on younger patients using older GLP-1s did not show an increased risk of fractures, but newer, more effective versions are now more widely prescribed to older adults, Kasher-Meron noted.

“In older people treated with contemporary medications, the fracture risk profile looks different and deserves close attention,” she said.

Separate research found slightly higher rates of osteoporosis and gout among adults who use GLP-1s. (Istock)

However, the study was observational, meaning it shows an association rather than causation. The researchers were unable to determine whether the risk was driven or not Weight loss, changes in diet, Muscle loss or direct impact on bone.

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However, “bone health should be evaluated before starting these medications in older patients — not as an afterthought,” says Kasher-Miron.

The findings come as separate research presented at the annual meeting of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons this month raises additional concerns about bone health.

In an analysis of more than 146,000 Adults with obesity And type 2 diabetes, GLP-1 users were found to have a 29% higher relative risk of developing osteoporosis over five years than non-users, according to reports.

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Gout rates were also slightly higher, affecting 7.4% of GLP-1 users compared with 6.6% of non-users – about a 12% relative increase.

Experts recommend bone density screening for older adults who take GLP-1 medications. (Istock)

osteomalacia, bone softening, It was rare but occurred about twice in GLP-1 users, according to the study, which has not yet been peer-reviewed. It was also observational, and only showed correlation. Fox News Digital has reached out to the researcher for comment.

Experts say that several mechanisms could play a role in this matter. GLP-1 drugs suppress appetite and can lead to rapid weight loss. Significant weight loss is known to reduce bone density, partly due to decreased mechanical load on the skeleton.

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“It’s the same idea that we always hear about astronauts who go up into space, and they’re in a zero-gravity environment for a very long time,” said lead author Dr. John Horneff, an associate professor of orthopedic surgery at the University of Pennsylvania. He told NBC News.

“There’s nothing forcing their bones to bear their weight anymore. And a lot of astronauts come back with low bone density.”

In addition, eating fewer calories may also mean lower intake of calcium, vitamin D and protein, which are important nutrients for bone strength.

GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy are widely used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. (Istock)

Rapid weight loss can also temporarily increase uric acid levels, a byproduct of tissue breakdown, which may explain the rise in gout cases.

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Despite the findings, experts say the findings should not discourage appropriate use of GLP-1 medications, which have proven benefits in blood sugar control, weight loss and reducing cardiovascular risk.

In addition to checking bone density, experts say patients should make sure they have enough Nutrition and resistance training To help maintain muscle and bone during weight loss.

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A spokesman for Novo Nordisk, which makes GLP-1 drugs, said the company prioritizes patient safety, works closely with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and welcomes independent research into its products.

Experts also recommend proper nutrition and resistance training to help maintain healthy muscles and bones while losing weight. (Istock)

Liz Skrpkova, head of U.S. media relations at Novo Nordisk, told Fox News Digital that the known risks and benefits of the drugs are reflected in the current FDA-approved classification. She confirmed that semaglutide has proven benefits for the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and liver when used under medical supervision.

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“Osteoporosis is a complex condition that develops over many years as a result of interconnected risk factors,” Skrpkova added.

Fox News Digital’s Melissa Ruddy contributed reporting.

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