Australia’s drug regulatory body has issued a new advisory concerning the use of well-known injectable diabetes and weight-loss medications, including Ozempic.

On this day, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) updated its guidelines for the entire category of GLP-1 receptor agonists, cautioning about the possible emergence of suicidal thoughts. Additionally, the update includes an enhanced warning about contraception for one specific brand.

This revision in advice regarding self-harm comes in response to international reports indicating a “potential risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors.”

In its statement, the TGA mentioned that it consulted the Advisory Committee on Medicines. Although the committee did not find sufficient evidence to establish a direct causal relationship, it recognized a “complex interplay between mental illness and chronic endocrine disorders,” which are conditions that might be treated with these drugs.

The TGA also pointed out a “potential relationship between weight loss and suicidal or self-injurious ideation,” emphasizing the need for awareness and caution.

“Patients taking any of these medicines should tell their health professional if they experience new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts or any unusual changes in mood or behaviour,” the TGA recommended.

The warning covers Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy (semaglutide), Saxenda (liraglutide), Trulicity (dulaglutide) and Mounjaro (tirzepatide).

The TGA also couldn’t rule out a link between Mounjaro and reduced effectiveness of oral contraception.

“Patients taking tirzepatide are advised to switch to a non-oral contraceptive or add a barrier method of contraception for four weeks after first taking the medicine and for four weeks after each increase in the dose,” the TGA said.

None of the class of drugs should be used during pregnancy.

The injectables, first used to treat type 2 diabetes, have become wildly popular since their appetite suppression properties were discovered.

They’re used to treat obesity, as well as by many for general weight loss.

But researchers have also raised several health concerns, such as arthritis and stomach issues, while noting the potential for health benefits for overweight people stemming from weight loss.

Potential long-term side effects of the new drugs are yet to be fully understood.

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