This article delves into a concerning topic surrounding suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, it is crucial to seek help from professionals at the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, available at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255). The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has reported an investigation into the popular medications Ozempic and Saxenda, both produced by Novo Nordisk in Denmark. A small number of users have reported an increase in suicidal thoughts and self-harm as side effects. Iceland had three reported cases, with two linked to Ozempic and one to Saxenda, which prompted the European Union’s safety review. Ozempic, an injectable semaglutide, is primarily used to manage type 2 diabetes, while Saxenda, containing liraglutide, is intended for weight loss. Both medications fall under the category of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) agonists, known for their benefits in controlling blood sugar and aiding weight loss.
The Pharmacovigilance Risk Assessment Committee (PRAC) of the EMA will also evaluate the need for investigating other GLP-1 medications, according to reports. Dr. Marc Siegel, a medical contributor to Fox News and professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, caution that an association does not necessarily imply causality. He suggests that there could be additional factors at play, such as underlying obesity or other medical and psychological conditions that coincide with the usage of these drugs. Nonetheless, it is essential to address these concerns carefully given the hormonal impact of semaglutides on the brain and their potential effects on brain function and nutrition.
Dr. Angela Fitch, co-founder and chief medical officer of knownwell, a weight-inclusive healthcare company based in Boston, explains that the increased risk of suicidal thoughts with GLP-1 drugs has been observed since clinical trials, although the risk remains minimal and higher than a placebo effect. Such information is documented in the trials, and suicidal ideation is a listed side effect for many obesity medications. Additionally, Fitch mentions that the relationship between patients and food can complicate matters, especially if food serves as an emotional coping mechanism. The reduction in food cravings and satisfaction can pose emotional challenges. Therefore, Fitch emphasizes the importance of incorporating these medications into a comprehensive chronic disease management plan within a supportive clinical setting. This approach allows healthcare professionals to monitor for side effects, adjust treatment plans accordingly, and provide emotional support.
A representative from Novo Nordisk has released a statement emphasizing that GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide and liraglutide, have been used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity for over 15 years. The safety data collected from extensive clinical trial programs and post-marketing surveillance has not indicated a causal link between semaglutide or liraglutide and suicidal or self-harming thoughts. Further comments from the company are awaited in response to inquiries by Fox News Digital. Melissa Rudy, health editor and member of the lifestyle team at Fox News Digital, contributed to this article.
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