Source – edition.cnn.com
A recent study has highlighted potential risks associated with semaglutide, a widely used medication for diabetes and weight loss. According to the research, individuals taking semaglutide may be more likely to experience suicidal thoughts compared to those using other medications. This finding emerges from a comprehensive analysis of an international drug safety database managed by the World Health Organization. However, this new evidence adds to a body of conflicting research on the relationship between semaglutide and mental health issues, including depression and suicide.
Semaglutide is marketed under the brand names Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss. It has gained significant popularity due to its effectiveness in managing blood sugar levels and aiding weight loss. Recent studies have also suggested potential benefits such as reductions in kidney disease and cancer risks. Despite these positive outcomes, concerns about the drug’s impact on mood persist. The issue is not new; past weight loss medications affecting appetite regulation have raised similar worries. For instance, the drug rimonabant, which influenced appetite through a mechanism akin to that of marijuana, was withdrawn from the market in 2008 due to its association with an increased risk of suicide.
Inconsistent Evidence and Ongoing Investigations
The latest study published in JAMA Network Open examined reports of suicidal thoughts linked to semaglutide and found a higher incidence compared to other drugs. Researchers identified 107 cases of suicidal ideation among over 30,500 patients using semaglutide and 162 cases among more than 52,000 patients on liraglutide, a similar medication. The study noted a 45% higher risk of suicidal thoughts in semaglutide users compared to all other drugs reported in the database. The risk appeared to be notably higher in individuals also taking medications for depression and anxiety. However, when excluding patients who were on both semaglutide and antidepressants, the association with suicidal thoughts diminished.
Previous investigations, including those by the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have found no definitive link between semaglutide and an increased risk of suicide. The FDA’s ongoing research has yet to confirm any elevated risk, though it acknowledges the possibility of a slight increase due to the limited number of events reported. A large study in January even suggested that semaglutide might be associated with a lower risk of suicidal thoughts compared to other weight loss and diabetes medications.
Expert Opinions and Precautionary Measures
Experts have raised concerns about the study’s conclusions, questioning whether the observed effects are due to the medication or underlying mood disorders. Dr. Mahyar Etminan from the University of British Columbia noted that distinguishing between drug effects and mood disorders in such studies is challenging. Similarly, Ian Douglas from the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine described the evidence as insufficient to establish a clear cause-and-effect relationship.
In a commentary, French drug safety experts Dr. Francesco Salvo and Dr. Jean-Luc Faillie underscored the need for caution. They pointed out that drug safety studies often yield varied conclusions based on the databases and methodologies used. They advised that semaglutide and similar appetite suppressants should be prescribed carefully, especially for individuals with a history of depression or suicidal thoughts. They also recommended that any new episodes of depression during treatment should prompt immediate reconsideration of the medication.
As the debate continues, patients and healthcare providers are urged to remain vigilant. While more precise data is awaited, it is crucial to monitor mental health closely when using semaglutide and to address any emerging issues promptly.
