A recent study published in Current Neuropharmacology presents troubling evidence connecting Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP1) receptor agonists, commonly found in medications like Ozempic, to an increased risk of depression and suicidal ideation. This research involved a collaboration of 24 international scientists who conducted advanced pharmacogenomic analyses to explore genetic pathways that may contribute to depressive symptoms in patients using these drugs.
The study indicates that while GLP1 agonists can provide advantages for individuals with hyperdopaminergia, a condition marked by excess dopamine activity, they may pose risks for those with hypodopaminergia, characterized by low dopamine function. Researchers identified genetic correlations between GLP1 receptor agonists and specific genes, including DRD3, BDNF, and CREB1, which are known to play roles in mood regulation and reward pathways.
The findings suggest chronic use of GLP1 agonists could disrupt dopamine signaling, potentially leading to depression, mood disturbances, and suicidal thoughts. Dr. Kenneth Blum, a senior author and Research Professor at Western University Health Sciences, emphasized the importance of not overlooking the study’s implications. He warned, “We urge the clinical prescribing community to proceed with caution to avoid another tragic wave of people dying to lose weight.”
Dr. Mark S. Gold, a co-author and expert in addiction psychiatry, stressed that the study underscores the need to reconsider the widespread use of GLP1 receptor agonists. He called for regulatory agencies like the FDA to carefully evaluate these findings when establishing guidelines for these medications.
The urgency of this issue is heightened by the European Medicines Agency’s ongoing review of GLP1 agonists, which has been prompted by reports linking these drugs to suicidal ideation and other psychiatric effects. Co-author Dr. Kai Uwe Lewandowski from the University of Arizona noted that depression was the most frequently reported adverse event among users, followed closely by anxiety and suicidal thoughts.
To mitigate risks, the study advocates for personalized medicine approaches, suggesting genetic testing for conditions like hypodopaminergia before prescribing GLP1 receptor agonists. Professor Panayotis K. Thanos of Buffalo University recommended using genetic testing tools to evaluate a patient’s dopamine function and potential addiction risks before initiating treatment.
Despite the potential of GLP1 receptor agonists to address certain behavioral and addictive disorders, experts like Professor Igor Elman from Harvard University caution against overlooking their risks. He stated that while these drugs show promise, vigilance is essential to prevent harm.
The study, titled “In Silico Pharmacogenomic Assessment of Glucagon-like Peptide-1 (GLP1) Agonists and Genetic Addiction Risk Score (GARS) Related Pathways: Implications for Suicide Ideation and Substance Use Disorder,” illustrates the intricate genetic pathways linked to the risks of using GLP1 agonists. This research serves as a vital call for regulatory scrutiny and clinical prudence in prescribing practices, aiming to balance the benefits of these medications with their potential dangers.
As the medical community considers the implications of this study, it highlights the need for ongoing research into the safety of GLP1 agonists and the importance of tailoring treatments to individual genetic profiles.
