GLP-1 Medication Semaglutide Shows Association with Reduced Depression and Anxiety

Mon, 04 May 2026 14:21:00 +0200

A large-scale study conducted by the University of Eastern Finland, Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, and Griffith University in Australia has found that GLP-1 receptor agonists, including semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy), may have significant mental health benefits beyond their primary role in treating type 2 diabetes and supporting weight loss. Tracking nearly 100,000 people from 2009 to 2022, the research observed over 20,000 participants using GLP-1 drugs. Results indicate that while taking semaglutide, individuals experienced a 42% reduction in psychiatric hospital visits and sick leave, a 44% lower risk of depression, and a 38% reduction in anxiety disorders. The study also reported decreases in substance use-related hospital care and work absence by 47%, along with a lower risk of suicidal behavior. Researchers suggest that these mental health benefits could result from multiple factors, including improvements in body image, better glycemic control, reduced alcohol co