NVO - Weight loss drugs not linked to suicidal thoughts - FDA

2024-01-11 11:56:59 ET

Popular weight loss drugs from Novo Nordisk ( NVO ) and Eli Lilly ( NYSE: LLY ) do not cause suicidal thoughts or actions, according to a preliminary evaluation from the U.S. FDA.

The drugs, such as Novo's ( NVO ) Wegovy (semaglutide) and Lilly's ( LLY ) Zepbound (tirzepatide), belong to a class of medicines called glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists. GLP-1s are also used as treatment for type 2 diabetes.

The agency noted that over the past several months, it has received reports of suicidal thoughts and actions in individuals on GLP-1s.

"Because the information provided was often limited and because these events can be influenced by other potential factors, we determined that the information in these reports did not demonstrate a clear relationship with the use of GLP-1 RAs," the FDA said in a Drug Safety Communication . "Similarly, our reviews of the clinical trials, including large outcome studies and observational studies, did not find an association between use of GLP-1 RAs and the occurrence of suicidal thoughts or actions."

However, the agency noted that because it "cannot definitively rule out that a small risk may exist," it is continuing to look into the matter.

More on Eli Lilly, Novo Nordisk

• Eli Lilly: The Buzz Is Not Over
• Novo Nordisk CEO sees Wegovy users sticking with drug: report

• Study finds Wegovy not associated with suicidal thoughts in users

• Eli Lilly not interested in major mergers, prefers small deals: report

For further details see: