GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy may offer mental health benefits beyond weight loss and diabetes control, according to a new study in Lancet Psychiatry. Semaglutide was linked to significantly lower risks of worsening anxiety, depression, and substance use.
The study analyzed health records of 95,490 people in Sweden, most with pre-existing anxiety or depression. Researchers found semaglutide associated with a 42% lower risk of overall mental health deterioration, including 38% lower for anxiety and 44% for depression.
Semaglutide also showed a 47% lower risk of worsening substance use disorder. Liraglutide, sold as Victoza, was tied to an 18% reduced risk.
Experts caution the findings are observational-correlation does not prove causation. Randomized trials are needed to confirm if the drugs directly improve mental health.
However, GLP-1s carry risks. Past studies link them to stomach paralysis, bowel obstruction, and rare cases of vision loss, including NAION-a condition affecting up to 1 in 10,000 users.
Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Rare neurological symptoms include dizziness and confusion.