A study conducted by researchers from the University of Bern in Switzerland has found that weight-loss injections, originally developed for diabetes, can improve mental health. These drugs, known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic or Wegovy), not only aid in weight loss but also enhance mood, wellbeing, and quality of life. The study, presented at the European Congress on Obesity in Malaga, shows that the mental health benefits of these medications go beyond the effects of traditional diabetes drugs, like insulin.
Improved Mental Health from Weight-Loss Drugs
GLP-1 receptor agonists, often used to treat type 2 diabetes, have been found to have an unexpected positive impact on mental health. Researchers reviewed several studies on the effects of these medications, which included participants both with and without severe mental illness. They discovered that, unlike insulin or other antidiabetic drugs, GLP-1 agonists did not worsen mental health. In fact, they reported improvements in the overall mental wellbeing of participants, including those with conditions like schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and major depression.
For individuals with no diagnosed mental illness, the mental health benefits were even more significant. These drugs improved mood, reduced feelings of anxiety, and increased quality of life compared to standard diabetes treatments.
No Increased Risk of Psychiatric Issues
The study also found no evidence that GLP-1 receptor agonists led to a higher risk of psychiatric issues or hospitalizations. Contrary to what might be expected from a medication that alters bodily functions, these drugs did not trigger new psychiatric disorders in participants. This includes individuals with a history of mental health challenges.
Interestingly, the study also showed that in people with severe mental illnesses, GLP-1 agonists were associated with a positive impact on mental wellbeing. This was a significant finding, considering the increased risk of obesity among individuals with mental health conditions. These medications may offer new hope for treating both obesity and mental health disorders simultaneously.
Antidepressant and Anti-Anxiety Effects
Dr. Sigrid Breit, the lead author of the study, suggested that the positive effects on mental health may be related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of GLP-1 medications. These properties may help reduce neuroinflammation, a factor that can contribute to both mental illness and obesity. Dr. Breit believes that these effects could be especially valuable for individuals with severe mental health conditions who often face a higher risk of obesity.
For these individuals, the potential antidepressant and anti-anxiety effects of GLP-1 drugs could provide an additional tool in managing their mental health alongside weight-related challenges.
Call for Better Access and Monitoring
Experts in the field have welcomed these findings, though they also emphasize caution in the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists. Dr. Ed Beveridge, a psychiatrist with the Royal College of Psychiatrists, praised the study, noting that individuals with mental illness should be given priority access to these medications when appropriate. However, he also stressed that proper medical monitoring is crucial to ensure safe use, especially in patients with complex health needs.
Rachel Hastings-Caplan from Rethink Mental Illness also praised the study, calling it important and promising. She cautioned that while weight-loss drugs may offer short-term relief, they should not be seen as a permanent solution to mental health challenges. She highlighted the need for continued investment in safe and effective treatments for mental illness, noting that many commonly prescribed medications, like antipsychotics, often have negative side effects on physical health.
Caution Against Misuse and the Need for Balanced Care
Despite the promising results, Hastings-Caplan warned that the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists must be carefully managed. These drugs should only be prescribed by medical professionals and used under close supervision, especially for individuals at risk of developing eating disorders. A balanced approach is essential, one that addresses both mental and physical health needs simultaneously.
In the UK, approximately 13-15% of working-age adults suffer from long-term mental or behavioral conditions, with 2 million people in contact with mental health services. The dual benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonists may help in the treatment of both obesity and mental health disorders, offering a new pathway for holistic healthcare that addresses multiple needs at once.
