Risks and Benefits of GLP-1 Drugs: A Closer Look

Medications like Ozempic and Wegovy are praised for helping users lose weight. Yet, experts caution that they may also pose risks. Known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, these drugs reduce “food noise,” or constant eating thoughts, while imitating a hormone that induces fullness and slows digestion. They affect brain areas linked to reward, impulse, and emotion.

Scott Kanoski, from the University of Southern California’s Diabetes and Obesity Research Institute, stated that GLP-1 drugs can access brain regions tied to emotion, reward, and memory. He noted that the effects are poorly understood and vary with the patient and the drug. For some individuals, weight loss drugs may pose a mental health challenge. A 2024 study found semaglutide use reduced alcohol consumption by 40 percent, but other studies suggest these drugs could cause eating disorders or affect mental well-being. More research is required to understand their full effects.

Emerging Mental Health Concerns

The American Psychological Association warned that while GLP-1s can curb addictive behavior, they may dilute dopamine responses to various rewarding activities. The National Eating Disorders Association advises caution for individuals with eating disorders due to potential misuse and other risks. Designed to reduce calorie intake for weight loss with just a weekly injection, some researchers link these drugs to “drug-induced” anorexia. A 2024 study from Chung Shan Medical University Hospital indicates increased anxiety, depression, and suicidal tendencies in users. A 2025 analysis also found GLP-1s might trigger suicidal thoughts due to exacerbating depressive phenotypes.

GLP-1 Misuse and Access Risks

Dr. Sarah Boss, from BALANCE Rehab Clinic, noted that one-third of patients use GLP-1s without proper clinical indication. Patients don’t meet BMI guidelines for medication use, indicating misuse. Despite GLP-1s being prescription-only, Boss pointed out that patients access them online or through pharmacies without proper supervision or follow-up. Andrew Hardaway from the University of Alabama emphasized similar trends and noted that people might resort to untested drugs from unreliable sources. Pamela Keel of Florida State University expressed concern about the research process keeping up with their rapid use, stressing the need for more research to assess risks and benefits.

Boss reported that GLP-1 use, although not always the main concern for patients seeking help for issues like addiction or trauma, often emerges as part of their mental health conditions. Patients report heightened anxiety and depression after injections but continue usage due to weight concerns without proper supervision. This chronic stress from stopping the drug can exacerbate existing mental health issues.

Boss emphasized that GLP-1s should have guided access, and users should undergo psychological evaluations before starting.

Mixed Evidence and Ongoing Research

Paul Kenny from Mount Sinai highlighted both potential benefits and risks of GLP-1s on mental health. The medication’s ability to curb cravings and compulsive behaviors is evident, but its mental health effects vary. He affirmed the need for further research to understand individual responses, which could be influenced by genetic or mental health histories. Ali Güler of the University of Virginia sees promise in treating various distressing conditions, yet he cautioned against viewing the drugs as psychologically neutral.

A Call For ‘Personalized’ Care

Professor Hardaway suggested personalized medicine approaches for GLP-1 treatment. He proposed dosing could be tailored to minimize side effects while maximizing benefits. Currently, doctors are experimenting with dosages, often off-label, requiring more science and clinical trials for clearer guidance.

Updated on 06/17/26 to specify the BALANCE Rehab Clinic’s patient demographics.