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GLP-1 Receptor Agonist-Associated Slimmer's Palsy: Implications for the Peripheral Nerve Surgeon.

Ann Plast Surg · 2026

Last updated 2026-05-28

Two patients developed foot drop after losing 14% and 18% of their body weight over 3-6 months while taking semaglutide or tirzepatide. The condition, called Slimmer's Palsy, is linked to rapid weight loss and nerve compression at the knee. Doctors should be aware of this possible side effect as GLP-1 drug use increases.

AI summary of the abstract below.

JournalAnn Plast Surg, 2026
Citations0
Molecules

Abstract

Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) are increasingly used for weight management and cardiometabolic health. Common peroneal neuropathy (CPN) associated with rapid weight loss is attributed to adipose tissue reduction and subsequent nerve compression at the fibular head. Cases of "Slimmer's Palsy" have been described in conditions involving rapid weight loss, including anorexia, malignancy, and post-biliary surgery, yet it remains underrecognized as a potential complication of GLP-1RA therapy. This case report describes two nondiabetic patients who developed acute foot drop after losing 14% and 18% of their total body weight over 3-6 months of semaglutide and tirzepatide use, respectively. As use of GLP-1RAs continues to rise, peripheral nerve surgeons should be aware of Slimmer's Palsy as a predictable and treatable complication of rapid weight loss and be prepared to intervene before permanent denervation occurs.

Verbatim abstract via PubMed 41417708 ↗