Ozempic and Wegovy are both medications containing the active ingredient semaglutide, which belongs to the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist class. While both drugs share this common ingredient, their respective labels differ in the inclusion of mental health side effects.
Wegovy’s label explicitly lists adverse mental health side effects, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation and attempts, which are not mentioned on Ozempic’s label.
Dr. Sethu Reddy, president of the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology, explains that when pharmaceutical companies conduct clinical trials for FDA approval, they must report any adverse events that occur more frequently in patients taking the drug compared to those in the placebo group. This difference in reported mental health effects on the labels does not imply deception but rather reflects the data from these trials.
Dr. Raafat Girgis, a psychiatrist and clinical director, emphasizes the importance of consumers having full knowledge of both the benefits and consequences of any medication or product.
Semaglutide, the active ingredient common to both drugs, functions by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, increasing insulin production, and reducing blood sugar. Higher doses of semaglutide, as seen in Wegovy compared to Ozempic, also affect the brain’s appetite regulation, leading to weight loss. This could explain the variations in reported mental health effects, with medications that influence appetite regulation having the potential to impact mood.
Dr. Reddy underscores that the psychological and mental state of patients taking Wegovy for weight loss versus those taking Ozempic for diabetes management may contribute to differing mental health outcomes. Stress, anxiety, and societal attitudes toward weight can all influence eating habits and, consequently, mental health.
Common side effects of both medications, such as gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea), can also have implications for mental health. These symptoms, when severe, may lead to discomfort and psychological distress.
If you experience changes in your mental health while taking a GLP-1 medication like Ozempic or Wegovy, it is essential to contact your healthcare provider immediately. In cases where you cannot reach your doctor, seek assistance at an emergency room or urgent care facility. There are alternative medications and treatment options available, and doctors may adjust the dosage or explore other options to minimize side effects while maintaining therapeutic benefits. Finding the right balance is crucial, and medical professionals will work with patients through a process of trial and error to optimize the treatment plan.
