Ozempic, Wegovy linked to suicidal thoughts: Australia's drug regulator
What's the story
Australia's Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has issued a warning over the risk of suicidal behavior and ideation with popular diabetes and weight loss drugs. The warning applies to GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Saxenda, Trulicity, and Mounjaro. "Patients taking any of these medicines should tell their health professional if they experience new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or any unusual changes in mood or behaviour," TGA stated in an alert. The TGA advised doctors to monitor patients closely.
Contraceptive caution
TGA updates product warnings for Mounjaro
The TGA has also updated product warnings for Mounjaro, specifically regarding its use with oral contraceptives. After investigating a possible link between Mounjaro and reduced effectiveness of oral contraception, the regulator couldn't rule out an association. As a precaution, it advised patients using oral contraceptives to switch to non-oral options or add barrier methods for four weeks after starting or increasing the dose of Mounjaro. Moreover, the regulator has advised against the use of any GLP-1 receptor agonists during pregnancy.
Pregnancy warning
TGA advises against GLP-1 RA use during pregnancy
The TGA's decision follows careful consideration of available evidence and potential health implications associated with these medications. While the regulator clarified there was not enough evidence to conclude the drugs caused the changes in mood and behavior, it said there was a complex relationship between mental illness and the conditions GLP-1 drugs treat, with the possibility that weight loss itself could be associated with suicidal thoughts. Reports suggest that as many as half a million Australians take the drugs.