A small number of case reports in Iceland and the USA have raised the question of whether there is a potential link between the use of GLP-1 agonists and thoughts of self-harm. Fortunately, recent studies and regulatory reviews have provided valuable insights into this important issue.
What the Research Really Says
A significant study published in JAMA Internal Medicine analysed real-world data from over 124,000 individuals in Sweden and Denmark who were prescribed GLP-1 Agonists medications. This group was compared with nearly 174,000 individuals taking SGLT2 inhibitors, another class of diabetes medications, to see if there was any notable difference in the incidence of suicide or self-harm between the two groups.
The results were largely reassuring. Although there was a slightly higher number of suicides among those taking GLP-1 receptor agonists compared to the control group, the difference was not statistically significant. This suggests that the variation could be due to chance rather than indicating a true risk associated with these medications.
This isn’t the only study on the topic. Another study, published in Nature Medicine, reviewed data from over a million patients and suggested that the use of Ozempic and similar drugs might actually reduce the rate of suicide deaths.
Regulatory agencies have also taken a stance on this matter. The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) have conducted comprehensive evaluations of the evidence and determined that there is no conclusive link between GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, and a heightened risk of suicide. Following a nine-month assessment, the EMA stated that “the available evidence does not support a causal association” between these medications and suicidal ideation or behaviours. Likewise, the FDA’s analysis of the reports found no obvious correlation but highlighted the need for continued surveillance.
It’s important to recognize that mental health is complex and influenced by many factors. Some experts suggest that changes in eating habits caused by these medications, such as reduced pleasure from food, might impact the mood of individuals who use food as a coping mechanism. However, this does not imply a direct cause of suicidal ideation.
For the millions of people prescribed semaglutide, the benefits such as significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control continue to outweigh the potential risks. In fact, the Nature Medicine study found that people taking semaglutide were up to 73% less likely to report suicidal thoughts compared to those on other weight loss or diabetes medications.
Looking Ahead with Confidence
While the question of risk may not be entirely resolved, the current evidence does not suggest a significant link between Ozempic, Mounjaro, and suicide. These medications remain safe and effective when used correctly under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, as with any medication that affects the central nervous system, it’s important to be mindful of mental health and seek help if any concerning changes in mood occur. If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, we strongly encourage you to reach out for support. Whether it is reaching out to your GP, opening up to a family member, or calling an emergency helpline, please remember that immediate help is available. You don’t have to go through this alone. We are here to support you every step of the way.
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