Semaglutide's effects on heart and muscle mass
Official title: GLP-1 Receptor Agonist-Induced Muscle Mass Evaluation and Retention
Run by University of Alberta · NCT07272837 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will use MRI scans and strength tests over 12 months to see if semaglutide changes body and heart muscle in adults starting the medication.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edmonton, Alberta) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | April 30, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | July 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07272837 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–80 who are just starting semaglutide for type 2 diabetes or weight loss and who can safely undergo MRI are the intended participants.
✕Probably not a fit
People already using semaglutide for more than two weeks, those with recent major heart problems, MRI contraindications (e.g., certain implants or severe claustrophobia), or who require mobility aids that prevent exercise MRI are unlikely to benefit from participation.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is an observational 12-month imaging and functional follow-up of adults beginning semaglutide for type 2 diabetes or weight loss. Participants attend three in-person visits with MRI scans of the heart, abdomen, and legs performed at rest and during exercise, alongside physical function tests (balance, sit-to-stand, walking speed, handgrip). The protocol also collects blood samples, finger-prick glucose checks, questionnaires on health and nutrition, and three-day food records. The goal is to map changes in fat, skeletal muscle, and cardiac structure/function while patients use semaglutide in routine care.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify whether semaglutide preserves or reduces skeletal and heart muscle while reducing fat, helping clinicians personalize long-term treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Large clinical trials have shown semaglutide produces substantial weight loss and cardiovascular risk reduction, but few prior studies have used advanced MRI to track detailed heart and skeletal muscle changes over time.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults 18-80 years of age * Starting semaglutide for type 2 diabetes or weight loss * Able to safely undergo an MRI scan (including meeting the physical requirements for MRI equipment) Exclusion Criteria: * Current use of semaglutide for more than 2 weeks * Major recent heart issues or other severe health conditions * Concerns related to MRI use (including magnetic implants, pacemaker, severe claustrophobia) * Dependence on a mobility aid (unable to participate in exercise MRI)
Where it's running
-
Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute
Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Krista Jong, RD, BSc
- Email: glimmer@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 780-492-9010
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.