How accurate is the link between weight-loss medications and an increased risk of depression and suicidal thoughts?

A study conducted by researchers in South Korea has found an association between the use of weight-loss medications and higher rates of reported depression and suicidal thoughts. The researchers emphasized that their study is observational and therefore cannot establish that weight-loss drugs cause depression or suicidal ideation. Other factors may explain the correlation observed in the study, warranting further research to determine the nature of the relationship.

The analysis examined health and psychological data from approximately 27,000 adults, including 846 individuals who reported using prescription weight-loss medications. They found that users of these drugs were 93% more likely to report depression and 168% more likely to report suicidal thoughts compared to non-users.

The study also explored the relationship between weight regain and mental health among users of GLP-1 medications. Researchers found that individuals who regained between 5.9 and 10 kilograms were 65% more likely to report suicidal thoughts compared to those who regained between 2.7 and 5.9 kilograms. This likelihood rose to 267% among those who regained more than 10 kilograms.

Additionally, the probability of seeking mental health consultation increased among individuals who regained more weight, although the study did not record a clear increase in depression risk associated with weight regain.

The study was published in the Korean Journal of Family Medicine and relied on data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2013 and 2022. The study did not specify the exact types of GLP-1 medications used by participants.