Does Semaglutide Lower Depression?
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Although semaglutide is primarily known as a drug for diabetes treatment and weight loss, it has garnered interest for its potential to improve mental health. In this article, we’ll delve into the recent research regarding semaglutide’s potential to combat depression, as well as the other effects the medication can have on users’ psychological health.
Does Semaglutide Help with Depression?
A 2024 study from Epic Research that analyzed the records of about four million patients taking GLP-1 drugs showed that diabetes patients who take semaglutide are 45% less likely to be diagnosed with depression than those not taking the medication. The study also noted a correlation between semaglutide use and a lower likelihood of depression in non-diabetic patients.
Research has proven that individuals suffering from obesity have a higher risk of developing depression. Therefore, semaglutide may be able to indirectly alleviate depression by facilitating weight loss and improving the overall physical health and self-esteem of its users.
However, it’s essential to note that more research is needed to directly link semaglutide with the mitigation or remediation of depression.
Can Ozempic Treat Depression?
Ozempic, which is primarily prescribed for type 2 diabetes and weight management, has sparked interest in the scientific community for its potential mental health benefits. Studies exploring the link between metabolic disorders and mental health demonstrate that improving metabolic health boosts mental health.
Although Ozempic is not directly indicated for the treatment of depression, some patients and clinicians have reported mood improvements and a decrease in depressive symptoms as a result of using the drug. However, it’s important to note that current evidence is largely correlational, and rigorous clinical trials are necessary to substantiate these claims.
Does Semaglutide Help with Anxiety?
Semaglutide facilitates weight loss by mimicking the action of a natural hormone that regulates appetite. Although the evidence remains preliminary, some studies point to a correlation between the use of GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide and a lower likelihood of an anxiety diagnosis.
However, it’s crucial to note that more extensive research is necessary to fully understand the scope of semaglutide’s effects on anxiety and determine whether it could be a viable treatment option for the condition.
Does Ozempic Affect Your Mood?
Many patients and researchers have reported that Ozempic can influence its users’ moods. However, the evidence is not definitive, and experiences can vary widely from user to user.
Some patients have reported an improvement in their mental health, which could be attributed to the physical health benefits they experience from the medication. On the other hand, some individuals have reported feeling anxious or depressed after starting Ozempic.
If you experience significant mood changes while on Ozempic, it’s essential to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does Semaglutide Cause Suicidal Thoughts?
Recent clinical trials and patient reports indicate a range of psychological side effects of semaglutide. A small number of patients have reported suicidal thoughts while using the drug, but clinical trials have not shown evidence of an increased risk.
If you have a history of mental health concerns, including but not limited to suicidal thoughts, be sure to discuss them with your doctor before starting semaglutide.
What Are the Mental Health Side Effects of Ozempic?
Some of the psychological side effects Ozempic can induce include:
- Mood Swings: Some individuals may experience mood changes, including feelings of irritability or unexplained sadness.
- Anxiety: Reports of increased anxiety levels have been noted, which could be linked to the body’s adjustment to changing blood sugar levels.
- Depression: In rare cases, individuals have reported experiencing symptoms of depression after starting Ozempic. This could be a direct effect of the medication or indirectly related to lifestyle changes.
- Suicidal Thoughts: Although rare, one of the side effects of Ozempic use can be suicidal thoughts.
Conclusion
In the quest for better health through diabetes treatment and weight loss, semaglutide has emerged as a beacon of hope. While the drug primarily addresses metabolic issues, it may also offer psychological benefits. As with any drug, it is crucial to consult a healthcare professional about whether semaglutide is right for you.
If you’re interested in participating in a medical weight loss program, look no further than the Sanctuary Wellness Institute. When you sign up for our program, you gain access to an experienced weight loss physician and compassionate care team. What’s more, not only can you obtain your semaglutide prescription online, but you can get your medication delivered to your home.
Book a free consultation today to learn about how semaglutide for weight loss could transform your health.
How we reviewed this article:
- Anna Miller, Brendan Joyce, Kersten Bartelt, and Joe Deckert (2024). Most GLP-1 Medications Correlated with a Lower Likelihood of Anxiety and Depression Diagnoses
https://www.epicresearch.org/articles/most-glp-1-medications-correlated-with-a-lower-likelihood-of-anxiety-and-depression-diagnoses - Xiying Fu, Yicun Wang, Fangyi Zhao, Ranji Cui, Wei Xie, Qianqian Liu, and Wei Yang (2023). Shared biological mechanisms of depression and obesity: focus on adipokines and lipokines
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10333059/ - Lisa Jarvis (2024). Can Ozempic Treat Your Depression? Early Signs Point to Yes
https://www.bloomberg.com/opinion/articles/2024-02-14/can-ozempic-treat-depression-obesity-drugs-may-help-mental-health - Kaitlin Vogel (2024). GLP-1 Drugs Like Ozempic and Mounjaro Linked to Lower Risk of Depression
https://www.healthline.com/health-news/glp-1-drugs-like-ozempic-and-mounjaro-linked-to-lower-risk-of-depression - Thomas Rutledge (2023). Metabolic Health and the Mental Health Crisis
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-healthy-journey/202303/metabolic-health-and-the-mental-health-crisis - Drugs.com (2024). How does semaglutide work for weight loss?
https://www.drugs.com/medical-answers/semaglutide-work-weight-loss-3573689/ - Riley Hoffman and Youri Benadjaoud (2024). Weight loss drugs linked to lower likelihood of depression and anxiety diagnoses: Study
https://abcnews.go.com/Health/weight-loss-drugs-linked-lower-likelihood-depression-anxiety/story?id=107000659 - Robby Berman (2024). Can weight loss drugs actually help lower depression and anxiety risk?
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/weight-loss-drugs-help-lower-depression-and-anxiety-risk - Omer Awan (2023). What’s Behind The Mental Health Concerns With Ozempic Use
https://www.forbes.com/sites/omerawan/2023/09/29/whats-behind-the-mental-health-concerns-with-ozempic-use/?sh=a6012f255ded - Aria Bendix (2023). Should Ozempic come with a warning about a risk of suicidal thoughts?
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/ozempic-wegovy-reports-suicidal-thoughts-rcna93919 - My TMS (2023). The Link Between Ozempic and Depression
https://mytmstherapy.com/blog/the-link-between-ozempic-and-depression/
Current Version
March 31, 2024
Written By
Kirstie Gundlach
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Kirstie is a Certified Cannabis Coach with over 10 years in the medical cannabis field. She has worked at The Sanctuary Wellness institute since 2021 and has helped countless patients with questions pertaining to medical cannabis.
