Does Ozempic® Lead to Personality Changes?

Understand the connection between Ozempic® and personality changes. Explore the risks, evidence, and tips for managing mood swings while on Ozempic®.

Table of Contents
  • What Is Ozempic®?
  • Can Ozempic® Cause Personality Changes and Mood Swings?
  • Clinical Reports On Whether Ozempic® Affects Personality or Mood
  • Adjusting To Lifestyle Changes While on Ozempic®
  • Findings on Ozempic® Personality Changes
  • How To Manage Personality Changes While Taking Ozempic®
  • Work With A Mochi Health Provider To Manage Side Effects
  • Key Takeaways

The journey toward weight loss and better health can be challenging, but medications like Ozempic® offer a promising solution. However, as with any medication, it’s important to understand both its benefits and potential side effects. Recently, there has been growing concern about "Ozempic® Personality" — a lay term used to describe personality changes such as depression, anxiety,  suicidal thoughts, and mood swings. This article will delve into what Ozempic® is, possible psychological impacts, and how you can manage side effects with the help of Mochi Health.

What Is Ozempic®?

Ozempic® was originally prescribed to manage type 2 diabetes and, more recently, to assist overweight or obese individuals with weight loss. (1,2) The primary active ingredient in Ozempic® is semaglutide, which belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists. It works by mimicking a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels and appetite, making you feel fuller for longer and reducing the overall intake of food. (1,2). In a major clinical trial, patients on Ozempic® experienced an average weight loss of around 15% of their body weight at 68 weeks. (1)

Can Ozempic® Cause Personality Changes and Mood Swings?

While the physical benefits of Ozempic® are well-documented, its psychological impacts have been less clear. Some users have anecdotally reported experiencing changes in mood and overall demeanor. Rising concerns have led to the popularization of the term "Ozempic® personality" in the media, used to describe a range of symptoms, including heightened anxiety, depression, and anhedonia (loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities). 

Clinical Reports On Whether Ozempic® Affects Personality or Mood

Research is still somewhat unclear about whether Ozempic® can cause changes in personality. In some studies, people have reported mood swings or feeling down after starting semaglutide, which resolved once they stopped taking the medication (3). However, these studies only suggest a potential link between GLP-1 medications and mood – they largely have been anecdotal and vary widely among individuals. In a rodent study, anxiety increased at first when using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic®. But over time, an improvement in mood was observed as treatment continued  (4).

There have even been concerns about potential suicidal ideations linked to semaglutide. This concern led to a large retrospective study examining over 240,000 overweight or obese patients who were prescribed either semaglutide (a GLP-1 receptor agonist) or a non-GLP-1 medication. (5) The analysis revealed that semaglutide was associated with a lower risk of both new and recurrent suicidal thoughts compared to non-GLP-1 anti-obesity medications. (5) 

However, a recent analysis from the World Health Organization global database did find a possible link between those taking semaglutide and increased suicidal thoughts, particularly among those already on antidepressants. (6) These findings imply that individuals with anxiety and depressive conditions might have an increased likelihood of experiencing suicidal thoughts when taking semaglutide. Of note, the FDA has issued a warning regarding Wegovy®, which uses the same primary ingredient (semaglutide), advising patients and healthcare providers to monitor for signs of depression or suicidal thoughts. (7)

Based on current studies and emerging concerns for suicidality, it is recommended that you talk with your doctor before starting any medication containing semaglutide, including Ozempic®, if you have a history of psychiatric disorders or psychological instability. 

Adjusting To Lifestyle Changes While on Ozempic®

It’s also worth noting that starting a weight-loss medication often comes with major lifestyle changes. These changes can affect your mood. For example, you might eat less of your favorite comfort foods or go out less often since many social activities revolve around eating and drinking. On top of that, side effects like nausea or upset stomach can add to the challenge. (1) Give yourself time to adjust and be patient as your body adapts to your new routine.

Findings on Ozempic® Personality Changes

Right now, there’s no strong scientific evidence directly linking Ozempic® to personality changes. Mood swings or feelings of depression could happen for a variety of reasons, not necessarily due to the medication itself. However, be aware that recent research has illuminated a potential link between semaglutide and suicidal thoughts, especially those with pre-existing depression and on medication. If you have concerns, especially if you’ve experienced mental health issues in the past, consult your doctor.

Despite these concerns, many people are happy with the positive changes Ozempic® helps bring to their lives. Most users report feeling less anxious about food, becoming more active, and enjoying an overall better mood.

How To Manage Personality Changes While Taking Ozempic®

If you do experience mood swings or personality changes while taking Ozempic®, here are some strategies to help manage these side effects:

  1. Monitor Your Mental Health: Keep a journal to track your mood, anxiety levels, and any changes in behavior. This can help you identify patterns and provide valuable information to your healthcare provider.
  2. Stay Active: Regular physical activity can boost mood and mental health. Even a daily walk can make a significant difference.
  3. Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet rich in nutrients. Proper nutrition supports both physical and mental well-being.
  4. Hydration: Drinking plenty of water can help manage some gastrointestinal side effects and support overall health.
  5. Seek Professional Help: If you notice persistent changes in your mood or personality, consult a healthcare provider. 

Work With A Mochi Health Provider To Manage Side Effects

Navigating the side effects of any medication can be challenging, but you don't have to do it alone. Mochi Health offers expert guidance and support to help you manage any side effects you may experience while taking Ozempic®. Our team of healthcare professionals can provide personalized advice, monitor your progress, and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. With Mochi Health, a dedicated medical and nutrition team will support you at every step. They’ll ensure you’re taking steps towards both physical and mental well-being. For those seeking comprehensive support and interested in starting a weight loss medication, Mochi Health provides personalized plans to help achieve and maintain weight loss goals. See if you’re eligible to join today.

Key Takeaways

While the term "Ozempic® personality" has raised concerns, it’s crucial to approach it with a balanced perspective. The benefits and safety of Ozempic® in managing diabetes and aiding in weight loss are well-supported by clinical trials, but its psychological impacts require more research. If you experience any mood changes, personality shifts, or thoughts of harming yourself, don't hesitate to seek professional help. Remember, with the right support and guidance, you can successfully manage your health journey with Ozempic®.



This post was written by our team of health writers for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult your doctor or healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your health. Ozempic®, Wegovy®, Mounjaro®®, and Zepbound® and their delivery device are registered trademarks. Mochi Health is a telehealth clinic that offers prescriptions for these products by medical necessity only as determined by a licensed health provider.

Sources

  1. Wilding JP, Batterham RL, Calanna S, et al.: Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with overweight or obesity. N Engl J Med. 2021, 384:989-1002. https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMoa2032183
  2. Food and Drug Administration. Ozempic® (semaglutide) injection prescribing information, revised 2020. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2020/209637s003lbl.pdf
  3. Li JR, Cao J, Wei J, Geng W. Case Report: Semaglutide-associated depression: a report of two cases. Front Psychiatry. 2023 Aug 29;14:1238353. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1238353. PMID: 37706035; PMCID: PMC10495976. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1238353/full
  4. Anderberg RH, Richard JE, Hansson C, Nissbrandt H, Bergquist F, Skibicka KP. GLP-1 is both anxiogenic and antidepressant; divergent effects of acute and chronic GLP-1 on emotionality. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2016 Mar;65:54-66. doi: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2015.11.021. Epub 2015 Dec 17. PMID: 26724568. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26724568/
  5. Neil, P. M., Aroda, V. R., Astrup, A., Kushner, R., Lau, D. C. W., Wadden, T. A., Brett, J., Cancino, A. P., Wilding, J. P. H., & Satiety and Clinical Adiposity - Liraglutide Evidence in individuals with and without diabetes (SCALE) study groups (2017). Neuropsychiatric safety with liraglutide 3.0 mg for weight management: Results from randomized controlled phase 2 and 3a trials. Diabetes, obesity & metabolism, 19(11), 1529–1536. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.12963
  6. 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
  7. 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 

Ready to transform your health?

Unlock access to expert guidance and a weight care plan crafted just for you.