Users of Ozempic have reported experiencing ‘Ozempic personality,’ a term used to describe unexpected mood changes, including increased anxiety and a lack of enthusiasm. Find out more about this side effect and the official response from Ozempic’s manufacturer.
While Ozempic has gained popularity for its use in treating diabetes and aiding in weight loss, many users have reported a surprising side effect: changes to their personality, which they’ve referred to as “Ozempic personality.”
Ozempic, a GLP-1 medication, has been widely prescribed, with reports stating that around one in eight adults in the U.S. have taken a GLP-1 drug like Ozempic, either for weight loss or to manage Type 2 diabetes. Although the drug is approved by the FDA for treating diabetes, many individuals have been using it for weight loss purposes, despite it not being specifically cleared for this purpose. Other GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and Zepbound, however, have been FDA-approved for weight loss.
What Is ‘Ozempic Personality’?
‘Ozempic personality’ refers to the unexpected changes in mood that some users have reported while taking the medication. Many individuals claim that the drug has caused them to feel more detached or emotionally flat. Symptoms of this so-called “personality shift” include increased anxiety, depression, and a general lack of enthusiasm for things that previously brought joy.
A Reddit user shared their experience, writing: “Personally, I’ve been on this for a year (no weight loss but helps regulate my T2) and I’m being told that ‘I’ve changed’. I have minimal passion for anything, very monotone, and no enthusiasm. I hear good news, I respond with ‘okay’. Things I enjoy seem to be a chore—including relationships, sports, work, family time, etc.”
Others have chimed in, discussing their own mood changes, such as increased irritability or feeling more “chill” about food but also slightly more aggressive about minor issues. “I swear I’ve become way more chill about food, but also slightly more aggressive about dumb things,” one user noted.
Does Ozempic Cause Mental Health Issues?
While some users have expressed concerns about the emotional effects of Ozempic, it’s important to note that a study has found no direct links between GLP-1 medications and suicidal ideation or significant mental health risks, according to Healthline. However, the reports of mood changes from users have raised concerns among some individuals who feel these changes are impacting their quality of life.
Official Response from Ozempic’s Manufacturer
In response to these reports, a spokesperson for Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, emphasized patient safety as their top priority. They encouraged individuals taking Ozempic or other GLP-1 drugs to follow the prescription guidelines and consult with healthcare providers about any side effects.
“Patient safety is of the utmost importance to Novo Nordisk. We recommend patients take these prescription medications only for their approved indications and under the supervision of a healthcare professional,” the spokesperson stated. “We continuously collect safety data on our marketed GLP-1 medicines and work closely with the authorities to ensure patient safety.”
What to Do If You Experience Side Effects
If you or someone you know is experiencing negative side effects while taking Ozempic, including changes in mood or other mental health concerns, it’s crucial to report these to your healthcare provider. The manufacturer also encourages patients to report any adverse effects through the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, help is available. You can call or text 988 to reach a 24-hour crisis center or visit 988lifeline.org. Additionally, the Crisis Text Line is available by texting MHA to 741741.
