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Recent findings from Case Western Reserve University have challenged concerns raised by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) regarding the chemical semaglutide, a crucial component in Novo Nordisk’s medications Ozempic and Wegovy. The study, soon to be published in Nature Medicine, has revealed that semaglutide is not associated with an increased risk of suicidal ideations.
Examining the health records of approximately 101 million patients nationwide, researchers narrowed their focus to a cohort of 2 million individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity. Contrary to the EMA’s concerns, the investigation found no evidence suggesting a link between semaglutide and suicidal thoughts. Intriguingly, Ozempic and Wegovy, containing semaglutide, demonstrated a reduction in the risk of suicidal ideation.
While acknowledging the need for comprehensive clinical trials to fully comprehend semaglutide’s side effects, the researchers utilized national data to empower patients with informed decisions regarding the risks associated with this chemical.
The study specifically analyzed two distinct patient groups: individuals with type 2 diabetes prescribed Ozempic and patients with obesity prescribed Wegovy. Over a six-month tracking period, researchers monitored the occurrence of suicidal ideation and recurring thoughts, noting consistent reductions in the risk of such ideations across various demographics, including age, ethnicity, and gender.
Compared to non-GLP1R anti-diabetes and anti-obesity drugs, semaglutide exhibited a lower risk for both the onset and recurrence of suicidal thoughts in patients prescribed Ozempic or Wegovy.
Pamela B. Davis, a Research Professor at Case Western Reserve University, emphasized the significance of understanding potential complications associated with the drug, especially considering its increasing usage. Davis underscored that the study’s extensive and diverse population in the US refutes prior suggestions of semaglutide triggering suicidal thoughts.
