OZEMPIC, WEGOVY AND SUICIDE RISK - What You Need to Know

by Dr. Leon Katz / June 26 2024

Ozempic, Wegovy and other GLP-1 drugs are very popular for weight loss. They work really well but some people worry they may cause suicidal thoughts.

In 2020, millions of people took these medications. But reports of increased suicidal thoughts made doctors take a closer look.

One study1 found a higher risk of suicidal thoughts with Wegovy and Saxenda. But after looking closer, no clear link was found between the GLP-1 drugs and suicidal thoughts or depression.

Another recent study2 in 2024 actually found a lower risk of suicidal thoughts in people taking Semaglutide compared to other weight loss medicines.

It's important to understand that studies don't always prove cause and effect. Your doctor needs to carefully weigh the risks and benefits for you as an individual.

Things like the emotional stress of obesity, being treated badly because of your weight, and health issues from obesity are really serious too. You and your doctor have to consider medication side effects against the dangers of untreated obesity.

The key is to stay informed, be honest with your doctor about your personal situation, and make the healthiest choice for you. With good information, you can make the best decision.

Resources

  1. (GLP-1 RAs) and suicidality: reports to the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), Expert Opinion on Drug Safety Link to study: https://doi.org/10.1080/14740338.2023.2295397

  2. Nat Med. 2024 January; 30(1): 168–176. doi:10.1038/s41591-023-02672-2. Association of semaglutide with the risk of suicidal ideation in a real-world cohort. Link to study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11034947/

More Blog Posts

Weight Regain After Successful Weight Loss:

read more

Is BMI Useful or Useless?

read more

DISCLAIMER: The content in this blog is not intended to constitute or be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this blog or on this website.