## Weight-loss drug Ozempic reportedly helps alleviate anxiety and depression
Patients taking Ozempic, a popular weight-loss drug, are reporting an unusual added benefit – they are free from anxiety and depression that used to rule their lives. Users across the country claim their jittery feelings became less intense when they started taking Ozempic, and others say their depression also disappeared. The drug helps people lose weight by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which curbs hunger and slows the rate at which a person’s stomach empties, leaving them feeling fuller for longer.
### The link between Ozempic and anxiety reduction
Experts acknowledge that Ozempic may also help reduce anxiety, although it is not clear whether this is due to the weight loss triggered by the medication or another factor. An estimated one in 60 US adults now have a prescription for Ozempic, its bigger dose version Wegovy, and another weight loss drug called Mounjaro.
A 2020 review of studies looking into the ability of GLP-1 hormone to alleviate depression found that “GLP-1 is a useful therapeutic modulator of depression.” Dr. Mary Jacobson, chief medical officer at telemedicine company Hello Alpha based in Palo Alto, California, told DailyMail.com that her patients on Ozempic have reported a decrease in anxiety. She said that about 20% of their patients who see them for excess weight also see them for mental health symptoms.
### The possible reasons for anxiety reduction
Dr. Jacobson admitted that it is not known why Ozempic might reduce anxiety, as some users might feel better because they have lost weight, and as a secondary effect, their anxiety is reduced. She added that some studies show a decrease in social anxiety or social phobia, as well as binge eating disorder and panic attacks. It could be that they just feel better about themselves, but there’s no way to tell if it’s how they feel with respect to the actual weight loss and the effect that Ozempic has on the neural circuits in the brain.
One 2020 study conducted at the China Medical University Hospital in Taiwan looked at diabetic patients who were on GLP-1 medications and those who were not. They found that those on GLP-1 medications had a reduced likelihood of being diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. However, some users are reporting increased anxiety.
### Negative side effects of Ozempic and Wegovy
There have been a host of negative side effects of taking Ozempic and Wegovy. Most recently, a growing number of patients detailing embarrassing and debilitating stomach and toilet symptoms – from severe constipation to losing control of the bowels. The problems have become so common that a Reddit group with more than 30,000 members has been created where users share their most embarrassing stories.
The drugs slow the digestive process, making people feel full for longer periods of time. This can lead to constipation. However, it can also signal to the brain that stomach contents need to be emptied sooner, resulting in diarrhea.
Users on TikTok have reported significant decreases in anxiety. One user commented: “I have had so much relief from my anxiety and Ozempic. It’s unbelievable like it’s noticeable.” Another said: “Pain and anxiety gone on Mounjaro. I’m in [a] Facebook group of 90,000 plus members. Many many say anxiety is better.”
Dr. Jacobson said that when people have severe obesity, losing all that weight can change their life. That’s why behavior modification is so important and work with coaches and others is so important because it’s really a major change in their life.
In conclusion, while Ozempic may help reduce anxiety, it is important to note that it may not work for everyone and may have negative side effects. It is always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new medication.
