Ozempic-Like Drugs May Trigger Brain Changes Linked To Depression

Do popular weight loss meds like Ozempic and Wegovy effectively treat obesity, but with potential long-term side effects? A recent study suggests these drugs may cause brain changes associated with  depression.

Ozempic and Wegovy are GLP-1 receptor agonists, named for mimicking the natural GLP-1 hormone in the brain, gut, and pancreas. This hormone helps regulate blood sugar and appetite, just as the natural version does.

GLP-1 drugs stimulate brain areas rich in dopamine, which influence pleasure and reward, and researchers explore them to treat addiction, obesity and diabetes.

Depression Risk in Genetically Prone Individuals

A recent study by an international team of researchers links dopamine disruption caused by GLP-1 drugs to potential depression and suicidal thoughts in individuals genetically prone to hypodopaminergia, or low dopamine function.

Psychiatrist Mark Gold from Washington University says, “The paper provides key evidence for reevaluating GLP-1 drug use.”

It’s important to note that this study is based on computer modeling rather than lab tests or clinical trials. The researchers analyzed genetic pathways of GLP-1 drugs associated with depression and suicide risk.

The researchers identified interactions with the activity of specific genes, such as DRD3, BDNF, CREB1, CRH, IL6, and DPP4. These genes influence dopamine signaling and mood regulation, and GLP-1 drugs may alter their function.

Although, researchers have previously established this connection. The European Medicines Agency is currently looking into reports from healthcare professionals in Iceland regarding an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harm in individuals taking GLP-1 drugs.

“GLP-1 Drugs Linked to Psychiatric Issues, Including Depression”

A 2024 review of GLP-1 drug side effects found that  1.2 percent were adverse psychiatric events, with depression being the most frequently reported, followed by anxiety and suicidal thoughts.

Therefore, this research is still in its early stages, so it’s important not to make any conclusions just yet. Due to genetic, environmental, and medication response differences, it’s crucial to gather information on GLP-1 drug side effects.

These treatments are new, and each study helps us understand their long-term health effects, like reducing cravings or offering cardiovascular benefits.

“Although GLP1-R drugs show potential in treating addictive and behavioral disorders, we must stay cautious about their possible risks,” says psychiatrist Igor Elman from Harvard University.

This study aims to add caution, not burst hope, about their over-prescription.

Read the original article on: Sciencealert

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