Popular Weight Loss Drugs May Pose Mental Health Risks, Says New Study
These popular weight loss drugs may contribute to some common side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain and fatigue. Vision loss, thyroid tumours, kidney problems, gallbladder issues and pancreatitis are some of the concerning side effects users may face.
A new study has highlighted the mental health risks associated with GLP-1 receptor agonists. The study published in Current Neuropharmacology uncovers links between GLP-1 agonists and genes associated with mood regulation, depression, and suicidal ideation. The study also highlights that GLP-1 agonists may benefit some individuals with hyperdopaminergic (excess dopamine activity), but they could be harmful to those with hypodopaminergic (low dopamine function).
These drugs affect genes such as DRD3, BDNF, and CREB1, which play key roles in mood and reward pathways.
"Chronic use may disrupt dopamine signaling and increase the risk of depression and suicidal thoughts," researchers highlight.
"This study should not be ignored, despite the hype surrounding the positive clinical outcomes of GLP1 receptor agonists," said senior author Dr. Kenneth Blum of Western University Health Sciences and Ariel University.
"The paper provides critical evidence for reevaluating the widespread use of GLP1 receptor agonists. The FDA and other regulatory agencies should carefully consider our findings when it comes to labeling and monitoring these drugs," Dr. Mark S. Gold, an addiction psychiatry pioneer and co-author, emphasized.
For the unversed, these drugs mimic GLP-1, a hormone naturally produced in the gut when you eat and plays a role in regulating blood sugar, appetite, and digestion. It interacts with GLP-1 receptors in the brain, particularly in areas controlling hunger and satiety. This helps reduce appetite and increases the feeling of fullness after eating.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
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Indian Express
an hour ago
- Indian Express
Eli Lilly's weight loss drug most effective at preventing heart attacks and strokes: What new study means for Mounjaro users
US pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly's weight-loss drug tirzepatide was found to be more effective in preventing heart attacks and strokes compared to its previous GLP-1 medication dulaglutide. The preliminary results from a yet-to-be published large trial showed that the risk of a major adverse cardiovascular event was eight per cent lower in people who were put on the new therapy. Tirzepatide is sold under the brand name Mounjaro. Belonging to a group of medicines called incretin mimetics — which mimic hormones that play a key role in regulating insulin levels, blood sugar levels and appetite — both the medicines were initially approved for the treatment of diabetes, with tirzepatide later receiving approval for the treatment of obesity and other related conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea. Dulaglutide mimics the action of the GLP1 hormone while tirzepatide mimics the combined action of GLP1 and GIP hormones. The trial found an eight per cent lower risk of major adverse cardiovascular events such as cardiovascular deaths, heart attacks and strokes in people who were on tirzepatide as compared to those on dulaglutide. Tirzepatide was found to reduce the risk of such events by 28 per cent against a placebo, by comparing the results of the current trial with a 2019 trial of dulaglutide against placebo. Another important finding of the trial was a 16 per cent lower risk of all-cause mortality in people who were on tirzepatide, compared to those on dulaglutide. The company said that the medicine reduced the risk of all-cause mortality by 39 per cent against placebo — again by comparing data from the current trial with the 2019 dulaglutide trial. The current trial also demonstrated that tirzepatide was better at slowing the decline of kidney function in participants who were at a high risk of chronic kidney disease. Tirzepatide slowed the decline in the kidney's filtration rate by 3.54 mL/min/1.73 m2 as compared to dulaglutide. The trial also showed that tirzepatide was more effective at reducing three-month average blood glucose levels as well as weight when compared to dulaglutide. The use of tirzepatide led to a 1.73 per cent reduction in HbA1c levels at 36 months as compared to 0.9 per cent with dulaglutide use. The participants on tirzepatide dropped 12 per cent of their body weight during the trial period as compared to 4.95 per cent with dulaglutide. With the new generation weight-loss drugs gaining popularity across the globe, it is essential for these drugs to demonstrate protection against heart diseases, especially since it is a common comorbidity along with obesity and diabetes. While there is a link between uncontrolled blood glucose levels and heart disease, not all diabetes medicines protect the heart. 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They inhibit the secretion of the hormone glucagon that stimulates the liver to release stored glucose into the bloodstream, slow down the emptying of the stomach so that the blood glucose levels do not spike suddenly and reduce appetite by signalling to the brain that you are full. The drugs have become popular owing to their weight-loss properties, which at times can be as effective as bariatric surgery. Anonna Dutt is a Principal Correspondent who writes primarily on health at the Indian Express. She reports on myriad topics ranging from the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension to the problems with pervasive infectious conditions. She reported on the government's management of the Covid-19 pandemic and closely followed the vaccination programme. Her stories have resulted in the city government investing in high-end tests for the poor and acknowledging errors in their official reports. Dutt also takes a keen interest in the country's space programme and has written on key missions like Chandrayaan 2 and 3, Aditya L1, and Gaganyaan. She was among the first batch of eleven media fellows with RBM Partnership to End Malaria. She was also selected to participate in the short-term programme on early childhood reporting at Columbia University's Dart Centre. Dutt has a Bachelor's Degree from the Symbiosis Institute of Media and Communication, Pune and a PG Diploma from the Asian College of Journalism, Chennai. She started her reporting career with the Hindustan Times. When not at work, she tries to appease the Duolingo owl with her French skills and sometimes takes to the dance floor. ... Read More
Time of India
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Fake medication is a problem across the world Matthew Ward Agius
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Hindustan Times
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