A recent observational study has raised concerns about a potential link between the popular weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy and an increased rate of suicidal thoughts. The study, published on Tuesday in JAMA Network Open, analyzed data from the World Health Organization’s database and revealed a higher incidence of suicidal ideation associated with semaglutide, the active ingredient found in both Ozempic and Wegovy, manufactured by Novo Nordisk A/S.
Researchers observed a greater number of reports of suicidal thoughts specifically linked to semaglutide when compared to other diabetes and obesity treatments like AstraZeneca Plc’s Farxiga (dapagliflozin), metformin, and orlistat. However, it’s important to note that the overall rate of such thoughts was relatively small, accounting for only 0.3% of all adverse reactions reported for semaglutide.
The study also found no increased rate of more severe behaviors, such as suicide attempts or self-injury, associated with semaglutide. Additionally, no higher rates of suicidal thoughts were linked to liraglutide, another GLP-1 drug from Novo Nordisk.
This research marks the first report examining the connection between semaglutide and suicidal thoughts using this extensive database. Further analysis revealed that the association between semaglutide and suicidal ideation remained significant even when antidepressants or benzodiazepines were concurrently reported, suggesting a heightened risk in patients with anxiety and depression taking semaglutide. Interestingly, the association was no longer significant when cases with co-reported antidepressants were excluded, while it persisted when benzodiazepines were excluded. This finding implies a possible interaction between semaglutide and underlying psychiatric conditions that warrants further investigation.
While the European Medicines Agency has not recommended updating the product information, the study’s researchers propose adding a precaution for use in patients with psychiatric disorders to the semaglutide label. It’s worth noting that the FDA label for semaglutide for obesity already advises monitoring for depression or suicidal thoughts.
The study’s findings have sparked debate and underscore the importance of careful monitoring for potential psychiatric side effects in individuals taking semaglutide-based medications. Further research is necessary to definitively understand the relationship between these drugs and suicidal ideation and to develop appropriate guidelines for patient care.
