Can Mounjaro Lead to Depression?

Mounjaro, a medication initially approved for managing Type 2 diabetes, has emerged as a highly effective treatment for obesity (1). Tirzepatide, Mounjaro’s active ingredient, is also FDA-approved under Zepbound for weight loss. Like any medication, there have been reports about side effects – most commonly, nausea, diarrhea, and constipation. 

If you’re considering Mounjaro or have recently started taking the medication, you may have come across recent concerns about its potential link to depression on social media platforms like Reddit, YouTube, and TikTok (2). 

When it comes to health, it’s important to understand whether you’re at an increased risk for developing or worsening mental health symptoms on GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro. Read on to learn more about Mounjaro’s connection to depression and what to do about it.

Does Mounjaro Have a Connection to Depression?

The GLP-1 receptor agonists, including Mounjaro, have gained popularity for their ability to aid in significant weight loss (1). With all medications, however, come side effects, and the GLP-1 medications have been scrutinized for their potential psychological impacts, especially regarding depression. Clinical trials and user reports offer valuable insights, so let’s  look at the evidence:

• Prescribing information: Mounjaro’s label lists mood changes as a potential side effect, however this is often as a symptom of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). (3). 
• A large study published in the New England Journal of Medicine revealed that less than 0.5% of participants on varying doses of tirzepatide reported depression or thoughts of suicide as a side effect (1). 
• A large-scale review explored the link between GLP-1 medications and the onset of depression. In diabetic patients, those who were prescribed GLP-1 medications generally demonstrated a reduced probability of experiencing depression compared to those not prescribed GLP-1, with tirzepatide (main ingredient in Mounjaro) exhibiting the most significant decrease (4).

Learn more about Mounjaro here.

Understanding the Link Between Mounjaro and Depression

While the evidence remains conflicting, more research is needed for clarification. While our understanding Mounjaro’s mental health effects remains somewhat unclear, there may be other important factors to consider:

• Hormonal changes: Mounjaro works by mimicking and enhancing the action of certain gut hormones, which can impact mood and emotional regulation.
• Weight loss stress: Rapid weight loss and big lifestyle changes can potentially influence mental health.
• Individual reactions: People's bodies respond differently to medications, and what holds true for one person might not for another.

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Is Depression Preventable in Mounjaro Users?

Preventing depression in users of Mounjaro, or any medication, involves several proactive steps, especially if you have a history of depression:

• Regular monitoring: Keep in close contact with healthcare providers to monitor mood and mental health.
• Lifestyle adjustments: Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can help stabilize mood.
• Mental health support: Counseling or therapy might be beneficial, especially for those with a history of depression.

Being aware and taking these steps can help mitigate the risk of developing depression while on Mounjaro.

Depression Incidence: Mounjaro Compared with Other GLP-1 Meds

When comparing Mounjaro to other GLP-1 receptor agonists, it's crucial to consider:

• Similar side effect profiles: Depression as a side effect is not unique to Mounjaro but is a concern with other medications in this class (2). 

A recent analysis from the World Health Organization global database found a possible link between those taking the GLP-1 medication semaglutide (main ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy) and increased suicidal thoughts, particularly among those already on antidepressants. (5) The FDA cautions those on Wegovy to monitor for symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts while on the medication. (6) 

• Individual variability: Some users may react differently to different medications, with some experiencing fewer mood-related side effects on Mounjaro than other GLP-1 meds.

Learn more about other GLP-1 medications here.

In conclusion, while the connection between Mounjaro and depression is still under investigation, being informed and vigilant about potential symptoms can empower users to manage their health proactively. Always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice and support.

Get Tailored Support From Mochi Health

Remember, you're not alone in navigating these challenges. It’s important to receive personalized support and guidance on your journey. At Mochi Health, compassionate providers and dietitians are available to help you get lasting results, manage symptoms, and improve your quality of life.

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If you want to get started on Mounjaro or need more guidance on managing your overall health on weight loss medications, consider Mochi Health as your comprehensive solution. Find out if you are eligible for our program today.

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Sources

1. Jastreboff, A. M., Aronne, L. J., Ahmad, N. N., Wharton, S., Connery, L., Alves, B., Kiyosue, A., Zhang, S., Liu, B., Bunck, M. C., Stefanski, A., & SURMOUNT-1 Investigators (2022). Tirzepatide Once Weekly for the Treatment of Obesity. The New England journal of medicine, 387(3), 205–216. https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa2206038?url_ver=Z39.88-2003&rfr_id=ori:rid:crossref.org&rfr_dat=cr_pub%20%200pubmed
2. Arillotta, D., Floresta, G., Guirguis, A., Corkery, J. M., Catalani, V., Martinotti, G., Sensi, S. L., & Schifano, F. (2023). GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Related Mental Health Issues; Insights from a Range of Social Media Platforms Using a Mixed-Methods Approach. Brain sciences, 13(11), 1503. https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci13111503
3. “MOUNJAROTM (Tirzepatide) Injection, for Subcutaneous Use.” Access Data FDA, Food and Drug Administration. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2022/215866s000lbl.pdf
4. Anna Miller, RN, et al. “Most GLP-1 Medications Correlated with a Lower Likelihood of Anxiety and Depression Diagnoses.” Epic Research. https://www.epicresearch.org/articles/most-glp-1-medications-correlated-with-a-lower-likelihood-of-anxiety-and-depression-diagnoses
5. Schoretsanitis G, Weiler S, Barbui C, Raschi E, Gastaldon C. Disproportionality Analysis From World Health Organization Data on Semaglutide, Liraglutide, and Suicidality. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(8):e2423385. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.23385. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamanetworkopen/fullarticle/2822453?utm_campaign=articlePDF&utm_medium=articlePDFlink&utm_source=articlePDF&utm_content=jamanetworkopen.2024.23335&utm_source=BulletinHealthCare&utm_medium=email&utm_term=082124&utm_content=MEMBER&utm_campaign=article_alert-morning_rounds_daily&utm_uid=15689092&utm_effort=MRNRD0#google_vignette
6. Food and Drug Administration. (n.d.). Wegovy (semaglutide) injection, for subcutaneous use. Access Data FDA. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2023/215256s007lbl.pdf