Can Mounjaro lead to depression?

Mounjaro is a medication used to help with weight loss by reducing appetite. It belongs to a group of medications called GLP-1 agonists, similar to other weigh loss medications including Saxenda, Wegovy, and Ozempic . These treatments are becoming increasingly popular, and Mounjaro is now approved for use by selected patients through the NHS. While Mounjaro has shown great promise for weight management, it is not without potential side effects. However one concerning question has popped up on social media: Can Mounjaro lead to depression? This is what this blog hopes to find out.

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Introduction

Mounjaro, initially approved for treating type 2 diabetes, has also become known for its effectiveness in managing obesity. Its active component, tirzepatide, contributes to its reputation as a potent weight management solution. However, Mounjaro can have potential side effects, and there are ongoing discussions about whether Mounjaro or similar weight loss injections could potentially lead to depression.

Commonly reported side effects of Mounjaro include:

• Nausea

• Diarrhoea

• Constipation

Mounjaro and depression

If you are considering Mounjaro or have recently started using it, you might have come across discussions on platforms like Reddit, YouTube, and TikTok about a possible link between Mounjaro and depression.

Can Mounjaro lead to depression is a frequent question doing the rounds on social media. Understanding whether Mounjaro could impact or contribute to mental health issues, such as depression, is important. In this blog we will explore the potential link between Mounjaro and mental health conditions such as depression and discuss what steps you can take if you have concerns about your well-being or have a history of mental health illness and are using or considering using Mounjaro.

What is Mounjaro?

Let’s remind ourselves what this drug is and how it works, and why everyone is talking about it! Mounjaro is a dual GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) and GIP (gastric inhibitory polypeptide) receptor agonist. What this basically means is that Mounjaro is a drug which works on two types of receptors throughout the body-(think of it like a lock and a key-the receptors are the locks and Mounjaro is the key).

In essence it works by:

• Enhancing insulin secretion (thereby controlling sugar levels in the blood)

• Reduces appetite

• Promotes feelings of fullness

Therefore it is easy to understand why these mechanisms make it a popular choice for managing both type 2 diabetes and obesity.

Can Mounjaro lead to depression?

Recently there have been many discussions on various platforms about the potential for Mounjaro to cause a deterioration in mental health, cause depression and even lead to suicidal tendencies. 

As you consider Mounjaro or if you’ve recently started using it, it’s important to understand whether this medication might contribute to mental health issues such as depression.

Let’s further explore the potential link between Mounjaro and depression by reviewing the currently available evidence. In doing so Medical Mojo can provide guidance on what steps to take if:

• You are considering Mounjaro for weight management but have a diagnosis of depression

• You are concerned about your mental well-being while using Mounjaro or

• You are currently taking Mounjaro and have a mental health illness and are not sure if you should continue

Evidence for depression linked to Mounjaro:

Let’s break down the evidence:

Prescribing information for Mounjaro:

• The official prescribing information for Mounjaro lists mood changes as a potential side effect but only in association with hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) rather than depression directly.

Clinical studies for Mounjaro:

• A large study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that less than 0.5% of participants experienced depression or suicidal thoughts while using tirzepatide.

Comparative evidence for Mounjaro:

• A review of GLP-1 medications in diabetic patients found that these drugs were associated with a lower likelihood of depression compared to patients not on GLP-1 treatments. Among GLP-1 agonists, tirzepatide (which is the active ingredient in Mounjaro) showed the most significant decrease in depression risk.
• By 2024, investigations by the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found no evidence linking GLP-1 medications to increased risks of depression or suicidal thoughts. Both agencies emphasized that they will keep monitoring for new data.

• At the same time, some research studies have suggested a possible connection between GLP-1 medications and mental health issues like anxiety or depression. However, these studies also stress the need for more research to confirm this link, as factors like the relationship between obesity and mental health could play a role.

Understanding the link between Mounjaro and depression:

Although the evidence remains somewhat conflicting, when giving a definitive answer to: Can Mounjaro lead to depression, further research is necessary to gain a clearer understanding of a potential link. Below are key factors that might explain reported mood changes when using Mounjaro:

Influence of hormones:

• Mounjaro functions by enhancing the effects of specific gut hormones, which could play a role in mood and emotional stability.

Stress from weight loss:

• Significant lifestyle adjustments and rapid weight loss may impact mental well-being, potentially triggering mood fluctuations or stress.

Varied individual responses:

• Each individual reacts uniquely to medications, meaning one person’s experience may not mirror another’s.

• Side effects can differ widely, so it’s important to watch for symptoms such as persistent sadness, changes in appetite or sleep, trouble focusing, loss of interest in usual activities, or feelings of hopelessness and irritability.

• Caregivers and healthcare providers should be attentive to these indicators, especially in individuals with a history of depression or anxiety.

• Inform friends and family when you start Mounjaro and advise them of potential side effects so that they can also watch out for any potential mood related side effects.

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The risk of suicide with Mounjaro

Understanding suicidality with GLP-1 medications

Data from the WHO’s VigiBase system has reported mixed findings regarding suicidality with GLP-1 receptor agonists. While some users report increased risks of suicidal thoughts, others experience a reduction in suicide attempts and suicide. Several factors could explain this:

Pre-existing mental health conditions:

• Many individuals using GLP-1 medications may have underlying psychiatric conditions, which can influence outcomes. People with a history of depression, anxiety, or other mental health illnesses may face a greater likelihood of experiencing mood shifts due to the complex interplay between mental health and medication effects.

Stress from weight loss or expectations:

• Significant weight loss or unmet expectations regarding treatment outcomes may contribute to psychological stress. For some, the physical and social changes associated with rapid weight loss can trigger feelings of vulnerability or dissatisfaction, which may manifest as depression or anxiety.

• Managing expectations and providing psychological support during the weight loss journey are critical in these cases. That is why Medical Mojo offers coaching based support and encourages a lifestyle shift to provide you with the support and empowerment through knowledge so that you understand your weight loss journey and how to maintain it.

Biological and metabolic interactions:

• GLP-1 medications directly impact hormonal pathways, including those linked to mood regulation. Changes in gut-brain signaling can influence serotonin (the feel good hormone) levels and other neurochemical pathways that affect mental health. While these changes often lead to mood stabilisation in some users, others may experience adverse effects.

Individual responses and comorbidities:

• Each person’s response to GLP-1 receptor agonists is unique. Patients with coexisting conditions such as type 2 diabetes, obesity, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often face overlapping challenges that complicate the mental health landscape. Type 2 diabetes, obesity and PCOS themselves are linked to increased risks of depression and suicidality, further confounding the interpretation of medication-related side effects.

Depression: Mounjaro vs. other GLP-1 medications

When comparing Mounjaro to other GLP-1 receptor agonists, (such as Ozempic and Wegovy) several factors stand out:

Similar side effects:

• Depression and mood changes have been reported with other GLP-1 medications, including semaglutide (found in Ozempic and Wegovy).

Risk monitoring:

• Regulatory agencies like the FDA and EMA have advised monitoring for symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts in patients using GLP-1 medications .

Individual variability:

• Some patients may tolerate Mounjaro better than other GLP-1 medications, highlighting the importance of personalised care.

The current evidence is not clear and may appear conflicting. While some studies have shown that certain GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) may be associated with suicidal ideation and other mental health effects, other research points to a reduction in suicide attempts and completions. This mixed pattern of findings suggests that the relationship between Mounjaro and mental health is complex and further studies are needed.

Currently the official prescribing information does not list depression or other mental health issues as common side effects of Mounjara.

Is depression preventable in Mounjaro users?

Depression is not an inevitable side effect of Mounjaro. Here are some proactive steps to minimise risk:

Regular monitoring:

• Schedule regular check-ins with your healthcare provider to track your mood and mental health.

Healthy lifestyle:

• Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in physical activity, and practicing mindfulness can help stabilise mood, and can positively impact your mental well being.

Mental health support:

• Consider therapy or counselling, particularly if you have a history of mental health conditions.

• Coaching can help support your weight loss journey and facilitate an understanding between the relationship you previously developed with food allowing you to be mindful and adopt different coping strategies moving forward.  

Recognise warning signs:

• Be vigilant for signs of depression, such as persistent sadness, irritability, withdrawal from activities, changes in sleep, and expressions of hopelessness.

• Early recognition and intervention can make a significant difference. By navigating the Medical Mojo website you will find FAQs relating to mental health and signs and symptoms to be mindful of.

Conclusion

The link between Mounjaro and depression is not completely clear, and the research so far has mixed results. Some studies suggest that GLP-1 medications like Mounjaro could lower the risk of depression, but others emphasize the need to keep an eye out for any changes in mental health.

If you are using or thinking about starting Mounjaro, it’s important to stay informed, talk openly with your healthcare provider, and take care of your mental well-being. Everyone’s experience is different, so getting personalized care can make all the difference.

For guidance that’s tailored to you, reach out to the Medical Mojo team who can sign post you to relevant information and support you on your weight loss journey with Mounjaro and other treatments. Why not couple you weight loss journey with coaching to ensure that you not only lose weight but keep it off by adopting a healthier lifestyle so that you become the best version of you.

Support from Medical Mojo

In summary, the link between Mounjaro and depression is still being studied but staying informed and watching for potential symptoms can help you take charge of your health. Always reach out to your healthcare provider for advice that’s tailored to your needs.

You don’t have to face these challenges alone. At Medical Mojo, our caring team of healthcare providers and coaches are here to support you every step of the way. We are dedicated to helping you manage symptoms, achieve sustainable results, and improve your overall well-being.

Final thoughts

While current evidence does not show a connection between Mounjaro and depression or suicidal thoughts, it’s important to stay informed. If you are using Mounjaro and notice any mood changes, always speak to your healthcare provider for support and advice.

This content was created by our Medical Mojo team to provide general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. For personalised recommendations about your health, always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider.

References

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