Ozempic and Wegovy have become household names for those struggling with weight.
Originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes, these injections are now revolutionising obesity treatment.
But new research suggests these drugs could be doing more than helping people shed pounds.
Scientists at the University of Bern in Switzerland have discovered a side effect no one expected.
A surprising lift to mental wellbeing
Presented at the European Congress on Obesity, the study shows that GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide don’t just suppress appetite.
They also appear to improve mood, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life.
For people with severe mental illnesses – including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder, and bipolar disorder – the benefits were notable.
And for those without a diagnosed mental illness, the drugs outperformed insulin and other diabetes treatments when it came to boosting mental health.
Lead author Dr. Sigrid Breit suggests the antidepressant-like effects may come from the drugs’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which could reduce inflammation in the brain.
Hope for the most vulnerable
This discovery could be a game-changer for individuals living with both obesity and mental illness.
Many rely on antipsychotics or antidepressants, which often lead to weight gain and related health issues.
Now, these appetite-suppressing injections might offer a way to counteract that effect – physically and mentally.
Mental health professionals have welcomed the findings, but with caution.
Experts stress that while the results are promising, these injections should only be prescribed with proper medical oversight, especially for individuals at risk of eating disorders.
As interest in these so-called “skinny jabs” grows, the study highlights a powerful potential: a treatment that not only changes the body – but also lifts the mind.
This article is based on information from The Guardian.