New research into Ozempic and Wegovy has raised fresh concerns for people using popular weight loss drugs, after scientists found a higher risk of bone and tendon-related problems in long-term users, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The study, presented at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ 2026 annual meeting, drew on a large electronic health record database and analysed 73 483 matched patients, while wider reporting placed the overall review at nearly 150 000 people.
After five years, the GLP-1 group showed a 29% higher risk of osteoporosis, a 12% higher rate of gout and a much sharper rise in osteomalacia, a condition that weakens bones.
Researchers also reported a higher risk of tendon rupture in a separate analysis.
‘Any medication that sees this rapid adoption warrants close examination,’ said study investigator Muaaz Wajahahth. He added that doctors should consider ‘bone health surveillance’ for patients at risk.
Experts say the findings do not prove the drugs caused the conditions, yet they add to calls for closer monitoring, good nutrition and strength training alongside treatment.
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