The European Medicines Agency (EMA) announced on Tuesday that it is currently conducting a comprehensive review of data concerning the potential risk of suicidal thoughts and self-harm associated with the use of GLP-1 receptor agonists. These medications are commonly prescribed for the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and obesity.
This review was prompted by a report from Iceland’s medical regulator, which documented cases of self-injury and suicidal thoughts among individuals using Ozempic, Saxenda, and Wegovy. It should be noted that all three of these drugs are manufactured by Novo Nordisk, a pharmaceutical company based in Denmark.
According to the EMA, approximately 150 cases have been reported thus far. However, it remains uncertain whether these reported incidents are directly attributable to the medications themselves or if they are influenced by underlying patient conditions or other factors.
It is worth mentioning that these drugs, alongside Eli Lilly & Co.’s Mounjaro, have gained significant popularity in the United States. In fact, their widespread use has occasionally resulted in supply shortages. Consequently, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has issued warnings cautioning patients against using counterfeit versions of these drugs.
Regrettably, the prevalent discussion of these medications on social media platforms has fostered the misconception that they are suitable for a broad range of individuals seeking to lose weight. Medical professionals stress that this misperception can have disastrous consequences for certain patients.