Yes, there are reports and studies suggesting Ozempic (semaglutide) and similar GLP-1 drugs can be associated with mood changes, including increased depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts in some individuals, though research is mixed, with some studies finding no link or even mood improvement. Regulatory bodies like Australia's TGA have issued safety warnings and harmonized labeling for this potential risk, emphasizing that it's a class-wide concern, not just Ozempic. The mechanism might involve dopamine changes, but more research is needed, and monitoring mental health is crucial for users.
Ozempic (semaglutide) is a GLP-1 receptor agonist that is commonly prescribed for the management of Type 2 diabetes. While the medication has been shown to be effective in improving glycemic control and promoting weight loss, there have been reports of negative mood changes associated with its use.
While you can stop Ozempic "cold turkey" without dangerous withdrawal symptoms, a gradual reduction might help your body adjust more easily. Some healthcare providers recommend tapering with lower doses before stopping completely. This approach might help with the transition as your body readjusts its hormone levels.
Almost 1 in 10 people in the clinical trial threw up when taking Ozempic. It could be because of the slowed digestion and extra pressure in the belly area it causes. Both nausea and vomiting happened most in people taking Ozempic at higher doses.
Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist licensed in the UK for type 2 diabetes, not for cortisol reduction. Weight loss from any method may indirectly influence cortisol metabolism and HPA axis function. Cortisol is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and responds to stress, sleep, and metabolic factors.
But about half of people with obesity on this class of medications, called glucagon-like peptide agonists or GLP-1s, stop taking it within a year. Studies suggest that most people discontinue their use due to the high cost and adverse gastrointestinal side-effects.
High cortisol levels, often from chronic stress or conditions like Cushing's Syndrome, cause symptoms like weight gain (especially around the belly, face, and neck), fatigue, high blood pressure, high blood sugar (leading to diabetes), thinning skin, easy bruising, acne, and mood changes (anxiety, irritability), plus potential issues with sleep, digestion, and reproductive health.
Vomiting and diarrhea from taking Ozempic can make your body lose water and important salts. If you do not drink enough water, you could become dehydrated.
"Ozempic hands" is a slang term for the visible changes in hands due to rapid fat loss from GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, making them look thinner, bonier, and more aged with prominent veins, tendons, and thinner skin, as subcutaneous fat diminishes and skin doesn't fully contract quickly. It's not a formal diagnosis but a common cosmetic effect of significant weight loss, similar to "Ozempic face".
Summary: Ozempic does not wear off by the end of the week when used as prescribed, as it is specifically designed with a seven-day half-life to maintain therapeutic effects throughout the entire weekly dosing interval.
"Ozempic face" as a side effect of GLP-1 drugs
If you've gone longer than a week or two without the medication, using the drug again can provoke serious gastrointestinal side effects. You may need help from your clinician to get safely back on track.
There's no evidence that Ozempic directly causes brain fog. But it can cause side effects that make you feel tired and cause trouble concentrating. Research suggests that Ozempic may be good for brain health by lowering the risk of stroke and dementia.
"Ozempic face," the gaunt look from rapid facial fat loss, doesn't automatically go away but can improve if you regain weight or through cosmetic treatments like fillers, as the skin's ability to bounce back depends on age and elasticity; maintaining weight loss means the facial changes likely persist unless addressed with procedures.
High-fat, greasy foods
Greasy foods tend to be high in fat and calories, and often they're high in salt, too. Think pizza, burgers, and crisps. They're not recommended as part of a healthy diet aimed at supporting weight loss and can also make people taking Ozempic feel sick.
The 7 common signs you're not drinking enough water include thirst and dry mouth, dark, infrequent urine, fatigue and headaches, dizziness, dry skin, constipation, and bad breath, all signaling your body needs fluids for functions like toxin flushing, nutrient transport, and maintaining energy, with urine color (pale yellow is ideal) being a great self-check.
Nausea is a common side effect of Ozempic. Some Ozempic users on social media claim that injecting the drug in the upper arm rather than the stomach can help reduce nausea. It's recommended for people to rotate between injection sites to reduce skin irritation, but it's unlikely to make a difference in side effects.
Some users report experiencing mood swings, anxiety, or depressive symptoms while taking these medications. The exact reason behind this is not entirely understood, but researchers speculate that it could be due to: Changes in appetite and reward systems: Food is deeply tied to emotional regulation for many people.
Sometimes, mood swings are symptoms of mood disorders like depression or bipolar disorder. Or they may relate to other mental health conditions, like: Anxiety. Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
After you stop taking Ozempic, the effects reverse pretty quickly. This can lead to a number of changes in your body. Some of them are symptoms you can feel — like an increased appetite. Other changes happen below the surface that may not cause any symptoms — like increased blood glucose (sugar) levels.
To get rid of excess cortisol, focus on stress reduction through mindfulness, deep breathing, and quality sleep, alongside a balanced diet rich in whole foods, omega-3s, magnesium, and B vitamins, while limiting sugar, processed items, and caffeine; regular, moderate exercise and connecting with nature also significantly help manage stress and lower cortisol levels.
“Cortisol face” isn't an official diagnosis
But this facial feature has been described in the medical field — we've called it “moon face” — and it absolutely can be induced by high cortisol levels. It's a combination of fat accumulation and soft issue swelling, associated with thinning of the skin.
Recognizing the Signs: How Cortisol Impacts Daily Life
Other symptoms include significant weight gain, particularly around the abdomen and neck, and psychological effects like increased anxiety, agitation, and restlessness.