Scientists have discovered that popular medications used to treat diabetes and obesity may also significantly improve mental well-being. A study published in the journal Lancet Psychiatry shows that GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, substantially reduce the risk of exacerbating anxiety and depression.
What Do the Statistics Say?
An analysis of data from 95,000 patients revealed that the use of semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy) reduces the likelihood of mental health deterioration by 42%. Specifically:
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The risk of worsening depression decreased by 44%;
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Anxiety levels dropped by 38%;
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The risk of substance use disorders was nearly halved (47%).
Experts explain that this effect is not solely linked to weight loss. While improving physical form naturally boosts mood, the medication also directly affects the brain’s “reward system.” This means the drug helps the body not only regulate sugar levels but also manage emotional states and addictive tendencies.
Alongside the positive news, the study points to significant risks: in diabetic women who took semaglutide during the early stages of pregnancy, the risk of preterm birth increased by 84%. Specialists emphasize that if a patient is planning a pregnancy, it is essential to consult a doctor and replace the medication in a timely manner.
According to specialists, semaglutide and liraglutide could become effective supportive tools for patients suffering from mental health issues alongside diabetes or obesity.
Although physical improvement inherently lifts one’s mood, scientists believe it is currently premature to use this class of drugs solely for treating anxiety or depression. Further clinical trials are needed to definitively confirm whether the medication has a direct therapeutic effect on psychiatric disorders or if its impact is limited to alleviating comorbid conditions.
