Ozempic Personality: How Weight Loss Medication Influences Behavior
By [Editor’s Name]
Published April 17, 2024, 6:58 p.m. ET
Move over, Ozempic finger, Ozempic face, and Ozempic butt—say hello to Ozempic personality.
The latest transformative outcome of the buzzy weight loss drug may be the most profound yet, with a growing number of patients claiming that the GLP-1 medication—and others like it—have caused anxiety, depression, and even suicidal ideation, even as they shed the pounds.
The Science Behind GLP-1 Medications
Looking into the science behind the life-changing jabs, experts have discovered why GLP-1 medications, originally intended to treat diabetes, could be changing people’s personalities and behaviors.
Ozempic and other popular treatments like Wegovy impact dopamine levels, which are responsible for a range of functions. These medications impact emotional and physical drive for food, as well as feelings of reward, pleasure, motivation, and movement. Users have even claimed that the drugs have also reduced their cravings for drugs, alcohol, and sex.
Dr. Kent Berridge, a professor of psychology and neuroscience at the University of Michigan, explained that both addictive substances and food activate the same dopamine signals and reward-learning regions in the brain. Hunger has also been found to amplify cravings for addictive drugs.
Because GLP-1 drugs help patients feel satiated for longer, experts believe they also lessen cravings for things other than food, like drugs and alcohol. Experts have suggested that GLP-1 drugs could help take the edge off certain cravings, thereby aiding weight loss or helping individuals trying to quit addictive substances.
Dr. Berridge noted that a decreased libido while on GLP-1 drugs is also plausible, as these medications suppress the reward pathway associated with sexual desire.
However, the exact mechanism by which GLP-1 drugs suppress dopamine systems is still unknown.
The Connection between GLP-1 Medications and Mental Health
The US Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) adverse event reporting system received numerous reports of psychiatric disorders connected to Ozempic, Saxenda, and Wegovy in 2023. Although medications like Saxenda and Wegovy carry a warning about suicidal thoughts, Ozempic, which is FDA-approved only for diabetes treatment, does not.
Research has shown that individuals who undergo bariatric surgery or use weight loss treatments like Ozempic have an increased risk of suicide and self-harm behaviors. Changes in quality of life and the unrealistic weight loss expectations endorsed by society can trigger these thoughts and behaviors.
Experts have also pointed out that GLP-1 medications, despite their effectiveness in weight loss, have not been studied extensively for their long-term effects. Misuse and the pressures to achieve rapid weight loss may lead some individuals to use these medications as a quick fix, neglecting their overall health and well-being.
Conclusion
While weight loss medications like Ozempic have shown promising results in helping individuals shed excessive pounds, they also have the potential to influence behavior and mood. It is crucial for patients and healthcare providers to consider these side effects and have open discussions about the risks and benefits of GLP-1 medications. Further research is still needed to fully understand the long-term impact and exact mechanisms behind these personality changes.
If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts or experiencing a mental health crisis, please seek help from a professional or call 1-888-NYC-WELL for free and confidential crisis counseling.
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.
