GLP-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1 RAS), drugs that help control type 2 diabetes and obesity can have profound effects on physical health – but what about mental health?
Some examples of these drugs include half rupees like Ozempic and Wegovy, and Liraglutide such as Victoza and Saxenda.
Various studies point to GLP-1 RA, leading to mental health complications such as anxiety and depression.
The effect of weight loss pills on cancer risk revealed by new research
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) published a study in June 2024 that considered the correlation between Semaglutide treatment and “increasing mood disorders.”
The study highlights the association between negative mood changes in patients with type 2 diabetes and a history of depression, warning healthcare providers to be aware of this “potential risk.”
The study debates the correlation between GLP-1 RA drugs and mood changes. (iStock)
However, a recent study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity, and Metabolism shows that these mood changes are associated with genetic variation among various populations and ancestors in the UK biobank.
Although the GLP-1 RA variant had “consistent cardiac metabolic effects” in all groups, the researchers said the negative effects on mental health were “more diverse”, concluding that any behavioral changes may not pass directly [the medications]. ”
In new research
Doctors weigh drugs and mood
Dr. Brett Osborn, a Florida neurosurgeon, often prescribes GLP-1 RAS to patients, and he believes there is no “consistent causal relationship” between these drugs and mental illness.
“Researchers genetically labeled nearly half a million people from different backgrounds to find the link between the genes behind GLP-1 receptors and mental health problems such as depression, anxiety or suicidal thoughts – they didn't find it.”
Patients and doctors reported that GLP-1 receptor agonists were associated with mood changes. (iStock)
Doctors point out that people who are obese or who struggle with type 2 diabetes are “often depressed” without medication.
“These conditions can cause losses physically, emotionally and socially,” he said. “So, yes, most patients who start using GLP-1 drugs are already dealing with mental health struggles. But it’s not because of this drug, but because of this disease.”
This is why belly fat becomes more common with age, and 3 ways to prevent it
Once these people start losing weight, blood sugar can stabilize and improve energy, which will also usually improve their mood.
“GLP-1 drugs can help people get back to health,” Osborne notes. “They reduce inflammation. Lower blood sugar. The waistline contracts.”
“When people look and feel better, when their bodies eventually start to fight them rather than fight them, they usually smile more, rather than less.”
“GLP-1 drugs can help people get back to health,” one doctor said. “When people look and feel better, they usually smile more, not less when their bodies eventually start to fight them.” (iStock)
Muhammad Ghanem, a weight loss surgeon at the Orlando Institute for Healthy Weight Loss and Bariatric Surgery, shared in another interview with Fox News Digital that while some of his patients reported mood changes, others “have not at all.”
Diabetes' first GLP-1 pill for weight loss, showing success in late trials
“Resentment or mood changes are very common anyway, so it’s hard [determine] Is this related to GLP-1 agonist drugs or is it just that they started to get these drugs after they started. ” he said.
“It's really hard to tell if it's a personality change due to weight loss or if it's a side effect due to emotional changes,” he added. “I don't think we have enough data to draw this conclusion yet.”
For those interested in GLP-1 RA medications or taking mood changes, experts stress the importance of close contact with medical providers. (iStock)
According to Ghanem, patients who lose weight with GLP-1 RAS can experience “significant enhancement” in confidence, personality and even relationship changes.
“It really depends on who they have and the support system,” he said. “You need appropriate, randomized controlled trials to draw conclusions and better study to determine if this is related to the drug itself or just weight loss.”
“It is important for all doctors who prescribe these medications to be careful and check the patient’s medical history.”
For those interested in these medications or are experiencing emotional changes while taking them, surgeons stress the importance of close contact with medical providers.
“Like any other medications, they can have potential side effects,” he said.
Ghanem recommends looking for professionals and practices that take weight loss as a “holistic approach” to provide mental health support in addition to medications.
Click here to get the Fox News app
“Obacteria is complicated,” Dr. Brunilda Nazario, chief physician editor of WebMD's medical affairs, told Fox News Digital.
“Obacter experts … are cautiously excited about the effects of these drugs,” she said.
Click here to sign up for our health newsletter
“Current research shows conflicting results for mood disorders and GLP-1 medications, and it is important for all doctors who prescribe these medications to be careful and check the medical history before prescribing them. [them]. ”
One expert advises: “If you think something is incorrect, don’t be afraid to ask for help – your health depends on it.” (iStock)
Nazario stressed that GLP-1 RA users should listen to their bodies, urging them to pay attention to their feelings and know that the symptoms of emotional disorders are “critical”.
He added: “If you think something is incorrect, don’t be afraid to ask for help – your health depends on it.”
For more health articles, visit www.foxnews.com/health
Nazario notes that GLP-1 RAS can influence mood in many different ways.
“They aren’t all negative—they have the potential to improve mood, too,” she said. “Just seeing great results can improve self-esteem, confidence and body image.”
