MHRA review finds no evidence linking GLP-1 receptor agonists to suicidal thoughts

Following a comprehensive review, the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) has concluded that current evidence does not support a
causal link between Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and suicidal behaviour, suicidal ideation, self-injury, or depression.

GLP-1 receptor agonists , which contain active ingredients such as exenatide, lixisenatide, liraglutide, dulaglutide, and semaglutide, are commonly used to treat
type 2 diabetes and obesity.

In July 2023, concerns were raised about the safety of these receptor agonists after post-marketing reports suggested a potential risk of suicidal thoughts and
self-harm associated with these medications.

As a result, safety reviews were initiated by the Market Authorisation Holders (MAHs), evaluating the UK post-marketing data to assess the potential risks of
these drugs.

These reviews also examined the risk of depression in the interest of patient safety following reports of these side effects.