Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered that semaglutide, a drug commonly used for weight loss in diabetes patients, is effective and safe for people with schizophrenia. Importantly, the drug does not worsen psychotic symptoms.
Trial Confirms Weight Loss Benefits for Schizophrenia Patients
Professor Dan Siskind, a clinical psychiatrist and psychiatry professor, led a 36-week trial that tested semaglutide in people with schizophrenia. This group often gains weight due to antipsychotic medications. The study found semaglutide helped patients lose weight without interfering with their psychiatric condition.
“Many patients stop taking clozapine because of weight gain,” Professor Siskind said. “Our findings offer new guidance for treating these patients safely and effectively.”
No Negative Impact on Mental Health or Medication Levels
This was a researcher-led study with no pharmaceutical company involvement. Professor Siskind highlighted that before this research, it was unclear if semaglutide would interact negatively with antipsychotic drugs or affect psychotic symptoms.
“We showed semaglutide did not affect psychotic symptoms or the levels of antipsychotic medication,” he said. “There was no increased risk or harmful drug interactions.”
Improved Body Composition Observed
The study also showed an improved lean-to-fat body mass ratio in patients taking semaglutide. This means patients lost more fat compared to muscle or other non-fat tissue, which is beneficial for overall health.
Calls for Wider Access to Semaglutide in Australia
Currently, semaglutide is not covered by Australia’s Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) for weight loss. Professor Siskind emphasized the urgent need to change this.
“People with schizophrenia urgently need access to effective obesity treatments like semaglutide,” he said. “We strongly advocate for its inclusion on the PBS to make it affordable for this vulnerable group.”
Many patients rely on family support to afford semaglutide, which helps them manage weight while continuing essential antipsychotic treatment.
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