Association Between Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists and Suicidality: A Systematic Review

This systematic review looked at whether GLP-1 receptor agonists are linked to suicidal thoughts or behaviours. Across 43 observational studies, findings were mixed and depended on study design, and the authors conclude the evidence does not support these drugs as a cause of suicidality.

Systematic review — Systematic review of observational studies. Population: Adults using GLP-1 receptor agonists. Sample size: 43 studies. Interventions: GLP-1 receptor agonists; Semaglutide; Liraglutide. Cited by 1 other paper.

Results varied by study design. Some case reports suggested a temporal relationship between GLP-1 RA use and suicidal ideation. Cross-sectional and case-control studies identified a negative association between GLP-1 RAs and suicide attempts. Pharmacovigilance and cohort studies showed mixed results: some found a positive association between semaglutide or liraglutide and suicidal ideation, while others reported a negative association with suicidal behaviours or completed suicide.

Researchers focused on Semaglutide or Liraglutide will find this review useful as a broad synthesis of observational evidence on suicidality signals. It does not establish a causal relationship or a quantitative risk estimate, and its mixed findings across study designs should not be used to support specific prescribing or dosing decisions.

Key findings

• Forty-three studies were included in the review.
• Some case reports suggested a temporal relationship between GLP-1 RA use and suicidal ideation.
• Cross-sectional and case-control studies identified a negative association between GLP-1 RAs and suicide attempts.
• Some pharmacovigilance and cohort studies identified a positive association between semaglutide or liraglutide and suicidal ideation.
• Other pharmacovigilance and cohort studies paradoxically reported a negative association with suicidal behaviours or completed suicide.

Limitations

• Only observational studies were included, so confounding and reverse causation cannot be excluded.
• No meta-analysis was reported, and findings varied substantially by study design.
• Reliance on pharmacovigilance data and case reports may introduce reporting bias.

The record

• Journal: Diabetes, obesity & metabolism 28(8): 6482-6508
• Published: 2026-05-18
• PMID: 42150748 — DOI: 10.1111/dom.70878
• MeSH terms: Humans, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2, Hypoglycemic Agents, Suicide, Suicide, Attempted, Glucagon-Like Peptides, Suicidal Ideation, Observational Studies as Topic, Liraglutide, Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 Receptor Agonists, Semaglutide
• Author countries: USA

Peptide profiles: Semaglutide, Liraglutide.

All indexed evidence: Semaglutide trials & papers, Liraglutide trials & papers.

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