Can Semaglutide cause mood changes and anxiety at 47?

Question

Hi doctor,

I started the compounded Semaglutide shots two months ago, and physically, it is working—I have lost 15 pounds already. But emotionally, I feel strange. I do not enjoy eating anymore, feel disconnected from friends, and have weird anxiety attacks. I did not expect to feel so flat and emotionally drained. I am 47 and have never had mental health issues before.

Could these shots be affecting my mood, or is this something else?
Should I stop the medication, or is there a way to handle these mental side effects while continuing to lose weight?

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and understand your concern.

First, congratulations on your physical progress, losing 15 pounds in two months is a meaningful achievement. But I also want to say that how you feel emotionally is just as important as the weight loss itself, and I hear your concerns.

Semaglutide, even in its compounded form, is designed to regulate appetite and blood sugar, but we are learning that for some people, it can also affect mood and emotional well-being. Feeling disconnected from food and others, or experiencing anxiety and emotional "flatness," is not uncommon. These symptoms may stem from several factors:

Appetite and reward system changes: Semaglutide reduces the pleasure from eating, which can disrupt emotional balance, especially if food has been tied to comfort or social connection.
Hormonal and gut-brain axis effects: The medication can subtly impact brain chemistry through gut signals that regulate mood.
Caloric restriction or dehydration: Reduced intake can sometimes lead to low energy, irritability, or anxiety, especially if nutrition is not well balanced.

Given that these feelings are new for you and appeared after starting the injections, it is reasonable to suspect a connection with the medication. However, before deciding to stop, here are a few steps I would recommend:

Speak with your prescribing physician: A dose adjustment or pause may help. Do not stop abruptly without guidance.
Monitor your nutrition and hydration: Make sure you are eating enough and getting adequate protein, micronutrients, and fluids, even if portions are small.
Track your mood: Keep a journal of symptoms, triggers, and timing relative to the injections. This helps determine if the changes are cyclical or constant.
Consider mental health support: A therapist or counselor can help you work through these new feelings and build strategies for reconnecting emotionally while continuing your health journey.

You do not have to choose between physical health and emotional well-being. Both are essential and possible together. I would be glad to help support you in exploring alternatives, adjusting your approach, or finding a path forward that brings both strength and peace of mind.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Thank you.