New study warns of potential mental health risks linked to popular weight loss drugs

A recent study has raised fresh concerns about the mental health effects of widely used weight loss medications such as Ozempic and Mounjaro, which are part of the GLP-1 receptor agonist drug class.

Originally developed to manage type-2 diabetes, these drugs have gained popularity for their effectiveness in promoting weight loss - but researchers now caution they may come with serious psychological side effects.

GLP-1 receptor agonists work by mimicking a gut hormone called incretin, which helps regulate blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. By interacting with brain regions responsible for hunger and satiety, these drugs reduce appetite and help people feel fuller after meals. However, the new study, published in Current Neuropharmacology, suggests that prolonged use could interfere with important brain functions related to mood and mental well-being.

While nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, and abdominal discomfort are common side effects already known to users, the study points to more severe risks, including depression and suicidal thoughts. The research team found that these drugs may affect genes involved in dopamine signaling - such as DRD3, BDNF, and CREB1 - which are crucial for mood regulation and the brain’s reward system.

Lead researcher Dr. Kenneth Blum of Western University Health Sciences and Ariel University emphasised that the findings call for a careful reassessment of the widespread use of these medications. “Chronic use may disrupt dopamine pathways, potentially increasing vulnerability to depression and suicidal ideation,” he said.

Co-author and addiction psychiatry expert Dr. Mark S. Gold echoed the call for caution: “The FDA and other health regulators must take these results seriously and consider updating safety labels and monitoring guidelines.”

Interestingly, the study notes that while GLP-1 drugs may help those with excessive dopamine activity (hyperdopaminergic), they could negatively impact individuals with low dopamine function (hypodopaminergic), making the drugs a double-edged sword depending on the user's brain chemistry.