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Weight regain after obesity drugs tied to higher odds of suicidal thoughts in observational study
Yahoo • • health
Key Points:
- A South Korean observational study of 27,741 adults found that those using prescription weight-loss medications had higher rates of depression, mental health counseling, suicidal thoughts, and suicide-related behaviors compared to non-users.
- Users of these medications were nearly twice as likely to experience depression and seek mental health counseling, 2.7 times more likely to have suicidal thoughts, and 1.7 times more likely to attempt suicide, with risks increasing among those who regained weight.
- Experts caution the study shows correlation, not causation, noting the data mainly involved older weight-loss drugs with known central nervous system side effects, and pre-existing mental health conditions may also influence results.
- Mental health monitoring is recommended for patients prescribed weight-loss drugs, with baseline assessments and regular follow-ups to detect mood changes, and immediate medical care advised if suicidal thoughts emerge.
- Manufacturers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk report no increased risk of suicidal ideation in their clinical trials for newer drugs like tirzepatide and semaglutide, though product labels include warnings to monitor mood changes.
