Ozempic and impulse control: When diabetes meds make you dance on the table
Wednesday, May 29, 2024.
So, you’re on Ozempic to manage your diabetes or shed those pesky pounds, and suddenly you’re finding yourself in some rather…interesting situations.
Maybe you’re gambling more, indulging in public displays of affection (or more), or even eyeing divorce as a shiny new start.
As a couples therapist, I’ve started hearing more of these tales, and it’s making me wonder: What’s going on with Ozempic and impulse control?
The Mechanism Behind the Madness
Ozempic, known scientifically as semaglutide, is a GLP-1 receptor agonist.
Translation: it mimics a hormone that makes your body do smart things like release insulin and curb appetite. But here’s the kicker—these receptors are also in your brain, which means Ozempic might be pulling some strings up there too.
Real-Life Drama Unfolds
Divorce Court or Love on the Rocks?
I’ve had clients who started on Ozempic and soon after felt an overpowering urge to reinvent their lives.
This often included questioning their marriage. While Ozempic helps control blood sugar, it might also loosen control over life choices. Suddenly, the idea of sticking it out "for better or worse" seems negotiable.
Public Displays of… What Now?
Some patients report increased impulsivity, leading to more than just a peck on the cheek in public. We’re talking full-on, riskier behaviors—sometimes even involving public sex. It's as if Ozempic turned the "let's keep this private" dial way down.
Gambling, Shopping Sprees, and Other Impulsive Fun:
Alongside these relationship shake-ups, there are stories of new compulsive behaviors. Gambling and shopping sprees have entered the chat. Think twice before starting a poker game on Ozempic, unless you want to wager the house.
Why Is This Happening?
Dopamine and All That Jazz:
Your brain’s reward system, largely governed by dopamine, might be getting a bit too excited by Ozempic. When GLP-1 receptors in the brain get activated, it disrupts the usual checks and balances, leading to impulsive behavior.
Serotonin's Role:
Serotonin, another key player in mood and impulse control, also dances to the tune of GLP-1 receptors. When these receptors get stimulated, it might tweak your serotonin levels, making you act out on whims more readily.
Managing possible Mayhem
Keep an Eye Out:
If you’re on Ozempic, be aware of any sudden changes in behavior. Whether it's considering divorce or spontaneous splurges, being mindful can help you manage these urges better.
Talk About It:
Communication is key. Discuss these changes with your partner and healthcare provider if you notice them. They’re there to help, not judge your newfound love for public escapades or casino nights.
Alternative Options:
If Ozempic is turning your life into a soap opera, it might be worth discussing other treatment options with your doctor. Sometimes, the side effects just aren't worth the drama.
Final thoughts
Ozempic is a powerful tool in managing diabetes and aiding weight loss, but it might also unlock some unexpected back doors in your brain.
If you’re experiencing unusual impulsive behaviors, remember you’re not alone—and it's okay to seek help.
I can help with that. If you‘ve read this far, drop me a line.
Balancing your health with your sanity (and your marriage) is possible, even if it means reconsidering your medication options. Just remember, life’s too short to let a little pill throw it completely off the rails—unless you really want to spice things up, in which case, carry on!
Be Well, Stay Kind, and Godspeed.
RESEARCH:
Arnebrant, T., Roman, L., & Ekberg, N. R. (2018). The GLP-1 receptor agonist: New insights into the mechanism of action and clinical application. Clinical Diabetes and Endocrinology, 4, 11. https://doi.org/10.1186/s40842-018-0061-6
Giorda, C. B., Nada, E., & Tartaglino, B. (2017). GLP-1 receptor agonists in type 2 diabetes: Current perspectives. Diabetes, Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity: Targets and Therapy, 10, 375-385. https://doi.org/10.2147/DMSO.S120226
Holst, J. J. (2013). Incretin hormones and the satiation signal. International Journal of Obesity, 37, 1161-1168. https://doi.org/10.1038/ijo.2012.208
Meier, J. J., & Nauck, M. A. (2016). Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists for individualized treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Nature Reviews Endocrinology, 12(10), 593-605. https://doi.org/10.1038/nrendo.2016.105
Patel, R., & Wiggins, J. (2018). Impulse control disorders and GLP-1 receptor agonists: A case series. Journal of Diabetes and Its Complications, 32(12), 1195-1197. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jdiacomp.2018.09.001
Singh, G., & Krauthamer, M. (2017). Neuropsychiatric effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists in patients with type 2 diabetes: An emerging issue. Diabetes Care, 40(5), e55-e56. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc16-2506
