New Treatment Options Emerge For Adults with Severe Mental Illness

A systematic review of available evidence presented at this year's European Congress on Obesity (ECO) in Malaga, Spain, has shown that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs), originally designed to treat diabetes, may also be effective in treating adults with severe mental illness. These medications have been found to lead to significant weight loss and improved blood sugar control, while also having positive effects on mood, well-being, and quality of life.

According to the study, GLP-1RAs might be as safe and effective for adults with mental illness as they are for mentally healthy individuals, significantly reducing psychotropic drug-induced weight gain and improving glucose control. These benefits are particularly important for people with severe mental disorders who are three times more likely to be living with obesity than the general population.

In a significant finding, the analysis showed that treatment with GLP-1RAs did not lead to a worsening of mental state or increased suicidal behavior in adults with mental illness taking psychotropics. This is a notable contrast to what has been seen with other treatments for weight loss and diabetes, which often cause weight gain.

Researchers from the University of Bern found that GLP-1RAs like liraglutide and semaglutide can mimic the action of a hormone called glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), which stimulates insulin production and lowers blood sugar levels. These medications have been shown to be effective in reducing hunger, increasing feelings of fullness, and slowing digestion.

The study's lead author, Dr. Sigrid Breit, emphasized that the results provide much-needed evidence for GLP-1RAs as a treatment option for adults with mental illness. However, she cautioned that more data from large-scale randomized trials and longer treatment periods are needed to establish the long-term efficacy of these medications.

The analysis covered 36 studies involving a total of 25,677 adults aged 18 or older from 19 countries. Eighteen studies examined the effect of GLP-1RAs on weight loss, glucose control, and mental illness outcomes in adults with severe mental disorder. The other 18 studies examined emotional well-being and quality of life in adults with overweight or obesity but no history of severe mental illness.

Ultimately, this new evidence has significant implications for the treatment of adults with severe mental illness and suggests that GLP-1RAs may be a promising option for those struggling with weight-related issues.