Key Takeaways
- A new study found that weight-loss medication users had a 93% higher risk of depression and 168% higher risk of suicidal thoughts.
- The risk was particularly high among those who regained weight after treatment, with suicidal thoughts up to 4.2 times higher.
- Researchers suggest possible neuropsychiatric effects and psychological stress as contributing factors.
A recent study has linked the use of prescription weight-loss drugs to a higher incidence of depression and suicidal thoughts, according to data from 27,741 adults in South Korea.
The study, published in the Korean Journal of Family Practice, analyzed participants from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2013 and 2022, with 846 individuals reporting the use of weight-loss medications during the previous year.
Researchers found that 22.1% of those who used weight-loss drugs experienced depressive feelings for at least two consecutive weeks, compared to 11.4% of non-users. Suicidal thoughts were reported by 9.9% of users versus 4.5% of non-users.
The study also revealed that 2.2% of users reported making suicide plans, compared to 1.4% of non-users, and 1.7% of users attempted suicide, compared to 0.6% of non-users.
After adjusting for other factors, the study showed that weight-loss medication users had 93% higher odds of depression and 168% higher odds of suicidal thoughts compared to non-users.
The association was particularly strong among those who regained weight after using the medication, with suicidal thoughts up to 4.2 times higher than among non-users.
Researchers noted that the increase in depression and suicide-related indicators following weight regain could be linked to neuropsychiatric effects of the medications and psychological and social stress associated with unsuccessful weight control or regaining weight after treatment.
However, the study only shows an association and does not establish a direct causal link between weight-loss drugs and depression or suicidal behavior.
Concerns over suicidal thoughts associated with weight-loss drugs have prompted reviews by health regulators. In 2023, the US Food and Drug Administration began investigating reports involving GLP-1 drugs.
Despite these concerns, the FDA concluded in January 2026 that a comprehensive review of clinical trials, observational studies, and post-marketing data found no increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior associated with GLP-1 drugs. The warning about suicidal behavior and ideation was subsequently removed from the prescribing information for Wegovy, Saxenda, and Zepbound.
