Can GLP-1s Treat Obesity, Diabetes, and Mental Health?

Health

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There has been some controversy over the use of the class of drugs known as GLP-1 agonists to treat obesity. GLP-1 agonists, sometimes referred to as GLP-1s, are medications which mimic the behavior of the GLP-1 hormone in the body. The best known of these drugs may be semaglutide, the generic name for Ozempic. GLP-1s were created to treat diabetes and some believe it should only be used for that, especially since shortages have already caused difficulties for people with diabetes who need to obtain them. Throughout history, though, medications created to treat one concern have later been found to be useful for many other conditions. A good example is antiepileptic drugs that were later found effective in treating depression and bipolar disorder.

Initial studies of GLP-1s showed how effective they were in treating obesity but more research has found promising results for many mental health issues too. (D. H. Kim et al. 2023 and Y. Liu et al. 2018)

Depression. Several studies have shown GLP-1s to improve depression symptoms in diabetics as well as non-diabetics.

Anxiety. Early correlations between reduced anxiety and stress levels have been noticed and more research is being done to examine this effect.

Eating Disorders. GLP-1s have shown good results for those recovering from binge eating disorder by stopping cravings and increasing feelings of fullness.

Alzheimer's. One study (Y. Li et al. 2022) looked at and noticed improved cognitive function, suggesting potential benefits for Alzheimer's patients.

Addictive behaviors. Studies found right away that these medications helped reduce food cravings but they have also helped people reduce binge drinking, smoking, and other addictive behaviors.

Why does it work?

The studies have found that GLP-1s potentially act on brain areas involved in mood regulation, promoting neurogenesis, and enhancing neuronal function. Recent research on the gut-brain connection (M. T. Kamaruddin et al. 2022) suggests that since GLP-1 is a gut hormone, GLP-1 agonists could help heal some gut issues that affect the brain. These medications have also been shown very effective in treating blood sugar control. High blood sugar can cause fatigue, trouble thinking clearly, and anxiety. Reducing blood sugar would help remedy those symptoms.

Much more research is needed to form firm conclusions. It doesn’t suggest that these medications should be taken to solely treat mental health issues but perhaps the findings could lead to new treatments for certain mental health disorders. Research will need to focus on:

Cause and effect. We need more clarity on whether these medications have direct relationships with improving mental health disorders and symptoms. Just because we see certain results does not mean that we can determine their exact cause. More controlled studies would need to look at this.

Individual differences. Those taking GLP-1s may have very different conditions, be taking other medications, or live with other health factors and lifestyle habits. These factors may influence the results some are getting.

Long-term studies. The medications are still relatively new and need more long-term research and large studies to see what the potential benefits and risks are after many years of use.

You should consult your healthcare professional before taking any new medication. Each person responds differently and may have different risk factors that could affect their ability to tolerate certain medications. GLP-1s work well for many people but others experience serious side effects they are not able to tolerate, despite the results. For others, these medications just aren’t very effective. There are no miracle drugs for any condition but we can’t ignore the exciting results many are finding with this treatment.