Johanneke E. Oosterman1, Mostafa Mohseni1, Mila Welling1, Philip Lambermon1, Wesley J. Visser2, Eline S. van der Valk1, Elisabeth F.C. van Rossum1, Mariëtte R. Boon1
(1) Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology; Obesity Center CGG, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
(2) Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Dietetics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
Introduction
Weight loss in obesity is associated with reduced resting energy expenditure (REE), predisposing to weight regain. We aimed to assess the effects of liraglutide and naltrexone-bupropion on body composition, muscle strength, and REE in patients with obesity.
Methods
We performed a retrospective observational study in which we evaluated 72 adults with obesity treated with liraglutide 3.0 mg (n=47) or naltrexone-bupropion 32/360 mg (n=25). At baseline and after 16 weeks of treatment, anthropometrics, body composition and handgrip strength were measured. REE was measured using indirect calorimetry.
Results
After liraglutide, body weight (-6.8 +- 4.5%) and body mass index (BMI) (-2.8 +- 1.9 kg/m2) were significantly reduced, with a reduction in fat mass and fat-free mass after 16 weeks. Handgrip strength remained unaltered. After naltrexone-bupropion significant reduction in weight (-4.8 +- 4.0%) and BMI (-1.9 +- 1.6 kg/m2) was observed, with a reduction in fat mass, while fat-free mass and handgrip strength were unaltered. Measured REE remained equal after both treatments, independent of changes in fat-free and fat mass. Comparable results were found after liraglutide in patients with prior bariatric surgery.
Conclusion
In adults with obesity, after 16 weeks of liraglutide or naltrexone-bupropion treatment significant weight loss was observed with preserved REE and muscle strength. This suggests a protective effect on REE and muscle quality by these second generation anti-obesity medicines.