US Doctor Claims Weight Loss Drug, GLP-1, Leads To Suicidal Thoughts And Behaviors

The American celebrity doctor, Daniel Gregory Amen, who practices as a psychiatrist and brain disorder specialist in his recent Instagram (doc_amen) video claimed the link between GLP-1 drugs and suicidal thoughts.

"There is brand new research that is concerning regarding the GLP-1 Drugs like Ozempic, commonly used to treat diabetes and obesity," he said. He then went on to cite the Journal of Affective Disorder for their recent study that explored the connection between these medications and suicidal thoughts and behaviors.

He said, "The researched reviewed reports in a very large World Health Organization database. The medication showed up to a 5-fold increase in suicidal thoughts and behaviors."

However, he did go on to say that these findings do not establish a direct cause and effect relationship. However, if you are taking it, you and your healthcare provider must monitor your mental health. In case of any changes in your moods and motivation, you must tell your healthcare provider.

What are GLP-1 Drugs?

They are a class of medications that help manage the blood sugar (glucose) levels in people with Type 2 obesity. Some GLP-1 agonists can also help treat obesity.

They are most often injectable medication, which means you inject a liquid medication with a needle and syringe. The shot is administered in the fatty tissue under your skin and areas of your body that includes your belly, outer thighs, upper buttocks, and the back of your arms.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved GLP-1 Drugs in 2005 and research is still on going about their potential use and benefits.

ALSO READ: Semaglutide Drugs Ozempic, Wegovy Don’t Increase Suicide Risk Or Depression, Study Finds

How Does It Work?

GLP-1 is a hormones that your small intestine makes which can do these following functions:

• Trigger insulin release from your pancreas
• Block glucagon secretion (glucagon is a hormone that your body uses to raise your blood sugar levels when necessary)
• Slows stomach emptying: slower digestion means your body releases less glucose from food to your bloodstream
• Increase your satiety

Is There Any Direct Links Between GLP-1 And Suicidal Thoughts

As per the Lancet Study titled Suicide and suicide attempt in users of GLP-1 receptor agonists: a nationwide case-time-control study, GLP-1 drug use was not associated with an increased risk of suicide or suicide attempt.

The study analyzed 1102 cases and 5494 control, with the mean age as 57.4, with 44.6% being men, 67.6% with recent psychiatric history and 51.3% with obesity.

However, another study titled GLP-1 agonists and risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviours: Confound by indication once again? A narrative review that reviewed the potential link of GLP-1 drug to psychiatric side effects found that these drugs can introduce biological and psychological stressors.

The study found that disruptions in homeostasis from quick weight reduction can elevate cortisol - a steroid hormone, also known as the stress hormone and norepinephrine levels - linked to anxiety, which increases your heart rate and blood pressure. However, the study noted that there is insufficient evidence for a direct causal link between GLP-1 drug and suicidal thoughts and behaviors (STB).

The study notes: "The indirect effects related to the metabolic and psychological disturbances associated with rapid weight loss call for a cautious approach. Used carefully in targeted populations GLP-1 agonists may even emerge as protective agents against STB. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor patients during the treatment and screen for preexisting mental health conditions. If detected, appropriate clinical management should be applied."