A recent study found a significant correlation between the use of semaglutide drugs such as Ozempic, antidepressants, or benzodiazepine use, and suicidal ideation. However, no such link was found between liraglutide GLP-1 drugs and suicidal ideation. National health authorities have not yet found a connection between GLP-1 medications and suicidal thoughts, but research on the topic is ongoing. The study adds to the conversation about the possible effect of GLP-1 diabetes/weight loss drugs on suicide ideation, although the findings are subtle. There is a disproportionality in the number of people taking semaglutide-based GLP-1 drugs alongside antidepressants or benzodiazepines who report suicidal ideation.
GLP-1 receptor agonist medications were originally developed to help people with diabetes control blood sugar levels and maintain a healthy weight but have also become popular as weight loss drugs. Some of these drugs are based on semaglutide, which was first available in 2017. Popular semaglutide-based drugs include Wegovy, Ozempic, and Rybelsus. Liraglutide-based drugs like Saxenda and Victoza have also been in use. Research has shown no indication of increased suicidal ideation in people who took liraglutide GLP-1 drugs along with antidepressants.
Concerns about GLP-1 drugs and suicidal ideation stem from reports of patients in Iceland and similar reports received by the FDA. The FDA and EMA have since investigated the issue, with both agencies finding no connection between the drugs and suicidal thoughts. In January 2024, the U.S. National Institutes of Health reported a study indicating that people on GLP-1 drugs had less suicidal ideation than others. The new study found a disproportionality signal specifically among those taking semaglutide medications along with antidepressants and benzodiazepines, highlighting the need for further research in this area.
Experts have raised concerns about the association between GLP-1 medications and suicidal ideation due to the rarity of reported cases and the difficulty in accurately assessing the incidence. It can be challenging to separate existing psychological stressors from those possibly caused by GLP-1 drugs. Research shows that the timing of starting a treatment for obesity can trigger mental health difficulties, and the medication’s effects on weight can also impact mental health. Further studies comparing people treated with GLP-1 agonists to those not receiving them are needed to understand the impact on mental health outcomes.
The methodology used in the new study has been questioned, with concerns raised about relying on individual spontaneous reports of suspected adverse drug reactions. Physicians are urged to inform their patients about the risks of semaglutide medications, assess their psychiatric history, and evaluate their mental state before starting treatment with semaglutide. In cases of persisting suicidal ideation or other relevant mental disorders, involving specialists such as psychiatrists and clinical psychologists for evaluation is recommended. It is also discouraged to use semaglutide without medical supervision, as proper monitoring and follow-up are crucial in ensuring the safe use of medications.
In conclusion, while the new study adds to the discussion on the possible link between GLP-1 drugs and suicidal ideation, more research is needed to understand the association better. The findings highlight the importance of informing patients about medication risks, assessing mental health history, and involving specialists when needed. Proper monitoring and follow-up are essential for safe medication use, especially with online prescriptions and home delivery. Physicians should be vigilant in ensuring proper care for patients prescribed GLP-1 drugs to prevent any potential adverse effects.
