A new study has raised concerns about the safety of popular weight-loss medications. Researchers say people using these drugs may face a higher risk of bone fractures and gout. The findings were presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2026 Annual Meeting.
These medicines, known as GLP-1 receptor drugs, are widely used to treat obesity and Type 2 Diabetes. Some well-known brands include Ozempic and Wegovy. They work by reducing appetite and helping people lose weight.
The new research studied more than 146,000 patients over a five-year period. Scientists compared people taking GLP-1 drugs with those using other weight-loss methods. The results showed that users had about a 30 percent higher risk of developing Osteoporosis. This condition makes bones fragile and more likely to break.
The study also found a 12 percent increase in Gout among users. Gout occurs when uric acid crystals build up in joints, often causing severe pain in the big toe or other joints. Another bone condition called Osteomalacia was found to be twice as common among people taking the drugs.
Experts say rapid weight loss may explain these problems. Bones are living tissues that respond to the body’s weight and movement. When a person loses a large amount of weight quickly, the pressure on bones decreases. As a result, the body may begin to lose bone minerals, making bones weaker.
Another reason could be reduced food intake. These medications slow digestion and suppress hunger. Some patients end up eating less protein, calcium and other nutrients that are essential for strong bones.
Health experts say people using these medicines should not panic but should take precautions. Eating enough protein, maintaining good calcium and vitamin D levels, and doing strength training exercises can help protect bone health.
Doctors also recommend regular health check-ups, including monitoring uric acid levels and bone density, to reduce potential risks while using weight-loss medications.
