GLP-1 RAs like semaglutide and liraglutide are known for their benefits in managing diabetes and promoting weight loss. However, their impact on mental health has remained an open question, particularly given growing use in non-diabetic populations for weight management.
This meta-analysis reviewed data from trials sourced from MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, and CENTRAL databases, aimed to clarify this issue. All included studies were double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in adults with overweight, obesity, or diabetes and assessed psychiatric, cognitive, or quality of life (QOL) outcomes.
The key findings showed no significant difference between GLP-1 RA treatment and placebo in terms of serious psychiatric adverse events (log risk ratio −0.02) or non-serious psychiatric issues (log risk ratio −0.03). Changes in depressive symptoms were also negligible (Hedges g = 0.02), indicating no worsening of mental health conditions.
But the analysis did uncover several psychological and lifestyle benefits. The patients receiving GLP-1 RA therapy showed small-to-moderate improvements in eating behavior, specifically in restrained eating (Hedges g = 0.35) and emotional eating (g = 0.32), suggesting enhanced control over impulsive eating patterns often associated with stress or negative moods.
Notably, GLP-1 RA users reported measurable enhancements across several quality-of-life domains; where mental health–related QOL improved (g = 0.15), indicating better emotional well-being. Physical health–related QOL (g = 0.20) and diabetes-specific QOL (g = 0.23) also increased, reflecting improved physical functioning and daily diabetes management.
Weight-related QOL (g = 0.27) showed the most robust improvement, suggesting greater satisfaction with weight and body image. This study provides strong evidence that GLP-1 RAs are not only physically effective but also safe from a psychiatric standpoint, with added benefits for emotional eating and quality of life.
Source:
Pierret, A. C. S., Mizuno, Y., Saunders, P., Lim, E., De Giorgi, R., Howes, O. D., McCutcheon, R. A., McGowan, B., Sen Gupta, P., Smith, D., Ismail, K., & Pillinger, T. (2025). Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists and mental health: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JAMA Psychiatry (Chicago, Ill.). https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2025.0679
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