Semaglutide's effects on heart and muscle mass
GLP-1 Receptor Agonist-Induced Loss and Impairment of Muscle Mass - Evaluation of Response
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 |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Alberta Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edmonton, Alberta) |
| Trial ID | NCT07272837 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Edmonton, Alberta
- Mazankowski Alberta Heart Institute — Edmonton, Alberta, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Krista Jong, RD, BSc
- Email: glimmer@ualberta.ca
- Phone: 780-492-9010
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.