New study: Weight loss drug can cause depression and suicidal thoughts

People taking semaglutide, a commonly used diabetes and weight loss drug, may have more suicidal thoughts than people taking other medications, according to a recent study.

However, experts argue that there is no clear evidence that semaglutide is linked to mood swings, pointing out that the scientific evidence on the subject is inconsistent, CNN reported.

Semaglutide is available under two brand names: Ozempic for treating diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss. Several companies also make compounded versions of this medication.

In recent years, its popularity has increased significantly as studies have highlighted its benefits, such as reducing the risk of kidney disease and cancer, according to the publication.

The patient information for semaglutide mentions that users should be wary of depression and suicidal thoughts. There are mixed results about whether newer weight loss drugs like semaglutide could cause these problems.

However, the European Medicines Agency said that no link had been proven between these drugs and suicide.

Similarly, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has been investigating the potential suicide risk associated with drugs similar to semaglutide. So far, it has found no clear evidence of an increased risk, but given the limited data, it cannot definitively rule out the possibility of a small risk. Its investigation is ongoing.

Connection between eating habits and self-harm

There have long been concerns about a possible link between medications that alter eating habits and the risk of self-harm.

Some people may experience a severe change in mood when they lose the joy of eating, potentially leading to harmful thoughts or actions.

For example, in 2008, the slimming drug Rimonabant was taken off the market because it was associated with an increased risk of suicide.

This drug, which affects the same nerve pathways in the brain that are responsible for the cravings caused by marijuana use, has never been approved in the United States.