Latest news with #CurrentNeuropharmacology
NDTV
26-04-2025
- Health
- NDTV
Ozempic's Impact On Brain Chemistry May Influence Depression Risk: Study
Researchers have discovered a possible connection between popular weight loss medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, and brain changes that may lead to depression. These medications, known as GLP-1 drugs, mimic a natural hormone that regulates blood sugar and appetite. However, studies suggest they may also affect parts of the brain related to dopamine, a chemical linked to feelings of pleasure and reward. According to the research that was published in the journal Current Neuropharmacology, GLP-1 drugs may disrupt dopamine levels, potentially leading to depression and suicidal thoughts in individuals with low dopamine function. While these medications show promise in treating obesity and diabetes, further investigation is needed to understand their potential impact on mental health. As per a news release, the study, led by researchers across the United States, Brazil, Iran, and Israel, demonstrates that while GLP1 agonists benefit individuals with hyperdopaminergia (excess dopamine activity), they may have harmful effects on individuals with hypodopaminergia (low dopamine function). The authors found genetic associations between GLP1 receptor agonists and genes such as DRD3, BDNF, and CREB1, which are implicated in mood regulation and reward pathways. Their findings suggest that chronic use of these drugs could dysregulate dopamine signalling, potentially leading to depressive symptoms, mood disturbances, and SI. Cautionary Voices from Experts While the idea of GLP-1 agonism induction of depression and SI is controversial with both negative and positive reporting, based on the evidence presented in this article by Alireza Sharafshah, a PhD candidate from the Cellular and Molecular Research Centre, School of Medicine, Guilan University of Medical Sciences, Rasht, Iran, the authors caution against promoting chronic stimulation via GLP-1 agonists. "This study should not be ignored, despite the hype surrounding the positive clinical outcomes of GLP-1 receptor agonists," said senior author Dr Kenneth Blum, research professor at Western University Health Sciences and Ariel University. "We urge the clinical prescribing community to proceed with caution to avoid another tragic wave of 'people dying to lose weight'." Dr Mark S Gold, an addiction psychiatry pioneer and co-author, emphasised, "The paper provides critical evidence for re-evaluating the widespread use of GLP1 receptor agonists. The FDA and other regulatory agencies should carefully consider our findings when it comes to labelling and monitoring these drugs."
Metro
25-04-2025
- Health
- Metro
Mass study reveals alarming new side effects of Ozempic-style weight loss drugs
From 'Ozempic face' to 'Ozempic fingers' and even 'Wegovy butt,' the potential side effects of weight loss medications have been well-documented. But now, a new study has revealed yet another troubling by-product of the drug – and this time, it's not physical, but mental. The research found a link between weight loss drugs and an increase in both depression and suicidal ideation. Put simply, GLP1 drugs – which are often called GLP1 agonists – are used in weight loss drugs like Ozempic. These mimic the hormones the body releases when we consume food, triggering the pancreas to release insulin and convert the sugar in our bloodstream into energy. Published in Current Neuropharmacology, the study explains that while these drugs can prove helpful for brains that produce too much dopamine (often called the 'feel-good hormone' that makes us feel pleasure), for those who naturally run on too little, it might cause more harm than good. So, why is this? It's all because when used regularly, these drugs can actually disrupt the production of dopamine, which can then lead to symptoms of depression, mood swings, and thoughts of suicide. The authors have warned that their findings should be taken seriously, as senior author Dr. Kenneth Blum, research professor at Western University Health Sciences and Ariel University, urged 'the clinical prescribing community to proceed with caution to avoid another tragic wave of 'people dying to lose weight.'' Dr Mark S. Gold, addiction psychiatry pioneer and co-author, even believes that it should be considered enough to 're-evaluate the widespread use of GLP1 receptor agonists.' 'The FDA and other regulatory agencies should carefully consider our findings when it comes to labelling and monitoring these drugs,' he added. Of course, some patients do report more pros than cons. Amanda Strowbridge struggled with her body image after she started going through the menopause in 2019, when she says she put 'more and more' weight on. After considering her options, in November 2023, she decided to put herself forward for Wegovy. Filling out the consultation form through Boots Pharmacy, she quickly received her first prescription. Amanda decided to start her own Instagram account to document her own weight loss journey. It was here that she soon connected with other people on a similar pathway. 'Because of the algorithm, other people on weight-loss drugs started coming up on my feed,' Amanda, who is 55, previously told Metro. 'There are so many nuances, twists and turns along the way and it seems that people who are ahead of others are 'paying forward' their experiences to help others.' Amanda also says there is a wonderful sense of 'camaraderie' among her friends, which makes a change from the feelings of shame people often feel when using weight loss jabs, or are trolled for being 'lazy.' 'As a community, I think we rise above any of these comments as we're too busy looking after our health,' she explains. 'Once people who have been trying to lose weight for years finally find something that works and is helping them, they feel empowered and don't really care what others think.' This isn't the first study to warn of the potential impact of weight loss injections on mental health. Research revealed that between January 2021 and May 2023, 481 psychiatric events were associated with not only semaglutide, but also other similar drugs liraglutide and tirzepatide, often sold as Mounjaro. Around half of the effects recorded included depression, followed by anxiety, while 20% experienced thoughts relating to suicide, according to research published in the International Journal of Clinical Pharmacy. As our understanding of weight loss injections has deepened, those taking the drugs have increasingly shared their experiences taking them. Over the last few years, prescriptions for weight loss medications have skyrocketed – and they've become so popular that earlier this month, WeightWatchers announced it was filing for bankruptcy after failing to compete against the rise of 'quick-fix' weight loss tools. 50,000 people in the UK are currently taking either Mounjaro or Wegovy, according to Simple Online Pharmacy, with data from Oushk Pharmacy further revealing that Gen Z is leading the surge in weight loss injections. As Dr Adil Sheraz, consultant dermatologist and British Skin Foundation spokesperson, previously told Metro, one phenomenon colloquially termed 'Ozempic face' refers to 'sagging, ageing and lacklustre appearance of the facial skin and structures.' Dr Paul Jarrod Frank, a dermatologist in New York thought to have coined the phrase, told the New York Times that he'd started seeing Ozempic face 'every day' since these drugs hit the mainstream. 'The face has a layer of fat that essentially stretches the skin. Ozempic results in rapid weight loss and does so very effectively. This, of course, will lead to rapid loss of subcutaneous (under the skin) facial fat,' Dr Adil further explained. 'The overlying skin however will not be able to shrink at the same rate, resulting in a sagging, droopy and wrinkled appearance.' That's not all. Though these symptoms aren't necessarily specific to taking semaglutide (it can happen with any case of rapid weight loss), people using the drug have also coined the term 'Wegovy Butt,' which refers to people's bums getting smaller, saggier and more deflated. More Trending Others have shared their experiences of so-called 'Ozempic finger,' which is essentially just rapid weight loss around the fingers and wrists, causing people's jewellery to slip off. Novo Nordisk, which manufactures Ozempic, previously told Metro that it couldn't comment on the side effects caused by people using Ozempic off-label, and not for its intended purposes. 'Regarding safety, the most common adverse events among people treated with Ozempic (semaglutide) for its indicated use, are gastrointestinal events including nausea, diarrhoea and vomiting,' a spokesperson said. View More » 'Most events were transient, and mild or moderate in severity and resolved without permanent treatment discontinuation.' Put simply, Ozempic and Wegovy are both brand names – but they're both variations of a weight loss drug called semaglutide. Ozempic is patented to treat type 2 diabetes, improving blood sugar to reduce the risk of major cardiovascular incidents. The Ozempic guidelines outline that the drug – which is injected – 'may help you to lose some weight' but specifies that it is 'not for weight loss.' The same rules apply in the US. While Ozempic is used to treat type 2 diabetes, Wegovy – another form of the ingredient semaglutide, under a different name – it is also used to treat 'adults with obesity or excess weight who also have weight-related medical problems', its website reads. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: I think Freddie Flintoff's facial scars look cool – they're just like mine MORE: The majority of people still think this female body part is 'unacceptable' MORE: I was 18 when my mum made me an embarrassing offer
Yahoo
25-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Scientists call for 'urgent attention' as seriously harmful potential effects of Ozempic-like drugs found in new study
Scientists are putting out warnings after discovering some incredibly serious and harmful potential effects of drugs similar to Ozempic. This comes from a multinational study, including researchers from across the United States, Brazil, Iran, and Israel, where 24 scientists have been investigating 'GLP1 agonists'. What these are is essentially a class of medications used for managing blood sugar and helping with weight loss, covering medications used for Type-2 diabetes that can trigger weight loss, such as Ozempic. Ozempic - which has become incredibly popular amongst many celebrities who have been using it specifically for weight loss rather than for Type-2 diabetes - has had outspoken critics in recent years, including some famous faces who have spoken out against it. Amy Schumer, who admitted to using the drug, stated she stopped using it due to side effects that left her 'bedridden'. She said: 'I tried Ozempic almost three years ago and I was like, bedridden. I was like, vomiting — and then you have no energy. But other people take it and they're all good. "God bless them… I couldn't lift my head off the pillow, so what's the point?' Researchers have added to fears around the drug, however, after calling for 'urgent attention' following a discovery that GLP1 agonists have a potential link to increased risks of depression and suicidal ideation. It states that, while the class of medications may benefit those with high dopamine production, for those with low dopamine production it can have harmful effects. The peer-reviewed study, published in Current Neuropharmacology, suggested that 'chronic use of these drugs could dysregulate dopamine signalling, potentially leading to depressive symptoms, mood disturbances, and suicidal ideation'. Dr. Kenneth Blum, a senior author on the paper and Research Professor at Western University Health Sciences and Ariel University, said: "This study should not be ignored, despite the hype surrounding the positive clinical outcomes of GLP1 receptor agonists. "We urge the clinical prescribing community to proceed with caution to avoid another tragic wave of 'people dying to lose weight'." Professor Albert Pinhasov, the Provost of Ariel University, added: 'While there are encouraging short-term benefits of GLP1 receptor agonists, we must acknowledge the potential risks highlighted in this study. "These findings should encourage regulatory agencies and clinicians to investigate further, given the heterogeneity of the human population." The European Medicines Agency have already initiated a review of GLP1 agonists, which covers drugs such as Ozempic, following reports of suicidal ideations as well as other negative side effect. Dr. Kai Uwe Lewandowski, a Professor of Surgery at the University of Arizona School of Medicine and co-author of the paper, said: "Depression was the most commonly reported adverse event associated with these drugs, followed by anxiety and suicidal ideation. Our findings strongly support a need for further investigation to safeguard public health." When approached by LADbible, a Novo Nordisk spokesperson said: "Patient safety is our top priority and we will continue to monitor reports of adverse drug reactions, including suicide and suicidal ideation, through routine pharmacovigilance. "Independent research and preliminary findings from the UK Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA), as well as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and conclusions from a European Medicines Agency (EMA) analysis did not find an association between use of GLP-1RA medicines and the occurrence of increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions. These findings align with data collected from our comprehensive clinical trials, including large-scale outcomes trials and observational studies. "We welcome independent research investigating the safety, efficacy, and clinical utility of our products. We will continue to collaborate closely with the MHRA and other regulatory bodies on any analysis related to the safety of all our GLP-1RA medicines. We stand behind the safety of all of our medicines when they are used as indicated and when taken under the care of a licensed healthcare professional. The known risks associated with use of these medicines are reflected in their current approved product labelling. "We recommend that any patients experiencing side effects while taking Novo Nordisk GLP receptor agonists report them to their healthcare provider and via the MHRA Yellow Card scheme: Adverse events should also be reported to Novo Nordisk via the Customer Care Centre by calling 0800 023 2573."
Daily Mail
25-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Scientists call for 'urgent attention' after discovering harmful potential effects of Ozempic-like drugs
Experts have warned that blockbuster jabs like Ozempic and Mounjaro can raise the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts, potentially leaving patients 'dying to lose weight '. The medicines could disrupt levels of a mood-regulating called dopamine in vulnerable individuals, a study by international researchers suggested. The findings come as The European Medicine' Agency launches a review of the family of drugs, called GLP-1 agonists, following reports of adverse psychiatric events, including suicidal thoughts. Senior author of the new study, psychopharmacologist Dr Kennneth Blum, said: 'This study should not be ignored. 'We urge the clinical prescribing community to proceed with caution to avoid another tragic wave of people dying to lose weight.' Millions of dieters in Britain are fans of the jabs, with studies suggesting at least one in 10 women use them. The medicines help patients to lose weight by mimicking naturally-produced hormones that make us feel full, dramatically reducing appetite. While studies have found them to be highly effective at aiding weight loss - and reducing the risk of heart attacks and stroke - researchers have raised the alarm about other concerning side effects. Complications have included stomach paralysis, dangerous inflammation of the pancreas and vision loss, among other issues. In March, an eight-year long study of 160,000 obese patients found those taking the drugs had nearly treble the normal risk of depression and double the risk of anxiety, as well as three times the risk of suicidal behaviour, compared with people who weren't on the drugs. The latest analysis, led by 24 researchers across the United States, Brazil, Iran, and Israel, found long-term use of these drugs could disrupt signals sent by dopamine in the brain, potentially leading to depressive symptoms. Commonly referred to as the happiness hormone, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the brain's pleasure and reward systems. In the paper, published in the journal Current Neuropharmacology, scientists examined the DNA of individuals with hypodopaminergia - a condition characterised by reduced dopamine activity in the brain. Using computer simulation software, the researchers studied the interaction between GLP-1 agonists and genes associated with dopamine signaling, including DRD3, BDNF and CREB1. They found that GLP1 receptor antagonists can disrupt the levels of dopamine in those with genes that reduce the activity of dopamine. This imbalance, they concluded, may increase the risk of depression, anxiety and suicidal ideation. The researchers are now urging clinicians to consider genetic tests to better protect individuals who are at a high risk of developing depression whilst taking the popular weight loss drugs. Professor Panayotis K. Thanos of Buffalo University commented: 'Before prescribing GLP1 receptor agonists, it would be prudent to use genetic testing tools to assess a patient's dopamine function and risk profile.' 'While GLP-1 receptor agonists hold promise, we must remain vigilant about their potential harm. 'This study is not intended to break the bubble of hope but to add a layer of precaution in their over-prescription,' Professor Igor Elman of Harvard University added. Wegovy carries a depression warning on its label.
Hindustan Times
23-04-2025
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Weight loss at the cost of mental health? Study reveals Ozempic increases depression risk
Ozempic is a hot topic, with constant buzz around its ability to suppress appetite and aid in weight loss, leading some Hollywood celebrities to adopt this diabetes drug. While many have applauded its effectiveness, others have raised alarms about its potential physical side effects, like nausea and vomiting. A study published in Current Neuropharmacology revealed a crucial side effect: Ozempic impairs mental wellbeing. Ozempic may negatively affect mental health, increasing the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts, per the findings of the study. ALSO READ: What is 'Ozempic feet'? THESE celebs may be exhibiting weight-loss drug's shocking side effect As per the study, it turns out that the Glucagon-like Peptide-1, the GLP-1 receptor agonists, the active components present in drugs like Ozempic could influence the dopamine system. For good mood, dopamine is one of the vital hormones. With dopamine disrupted, feelings of sadness, low motivation and even suicidal thoughts become prominent. Moreover, the low mood affects the quality of life, hindering daily functioning and routine. However, the depression risk is not applicable to everyone, as genes are the reason. The study elaborated further that people who are genetically predisposed to lower natural dopamine levels are more likely to experience depression after using Ozempic. The researchers analysed and found that GLP-1 drugs, like Ozempic, target certain genes like DRD3, BDNF, and CREB1. This can further worsen depressive symptoms. While there's no advocacy for a complete ban in the study, the study urged people to proceed with caution, understanding the risks. Before prescribing Ozempic, a thorough check of an individual's genetic background should be considered. These risk factors could help determine whether Ozempic should be prescribed or not. The study didn't deny the weight loss benefits but instead emphasised the need for precaution. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition. ALSO READ: Extra virgin olive oil is 'better than Ozempic'? Here's what anti-ageing millionaire Bryan Johnson said
