Investigation Launched in UK Over Weight Loss Drugs' Link to Suicidal Thoughts
The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in the UK is reviewing the safety of a class of drugs known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which includes Novo Nordisk's diabetes medicine Ozempic and weight-loss treatment Saxenda, after some patients reported suicidal or self-harming thoughts. The review follows similar action taken by the European Union. Novo Nordisk has confirmed receiving a request from the MHRA and stated that it will respond within the requested timelines. Other GLP-1 drugs from AstraZeneca, Sanofi, and Eli Lilly are also included in the review. The MHRA's review will consider safety data, including adverse drug reactions reported by patients and clinicians.