A study from Griffith University in Australia has found that people with bipolar disorder taking GLP-1 medications have lower rates of hospitalisation.

Researchers analysed data from 15,000 people over a 15-year period. The study found that individuals taking semaglutide—the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy—had a 21% lower risk of being hospitalised for psychiatric reasons.

Professor Mark Taylor, who led the study, described the results as "significantly lower rates."

"The findings add to growing evidence that GLP-1 receptor agonists may have benefits beyond diabetes and obesity treatment, and could represent a promising new avenue for bipolar research,” he said.

The research suggests GLP-1 signaling may protect the brain by reducing inflammation and cellular stress, which are linked to bipolar disorder. Additionally, drugs like Ozempic are known to quiet "food noise" and rewire dopamine hits, which may help keep chemicals stable in those with the condition.

The study noted that only semaglutide was associated with the reduced risk of psychiatric hospitalisation. Liraglutide (Victoza and Saxenda) and dulaglutide (Trulicity) did not show the same benefits.

Other research has noted similar trends:

• A 2025 study of nearly 30,000 patients suggested GLP-1 medications could have an "antidepressant effect."
• A study the previous year found obese teens given semaglutide had a 33% reduction in suicidal ideation or attempts.

While patients with ADHD have anecdotally reported improvements in focus and hyperactivity, scientists do not yet know if the drugs directly improve ADHD symptoms.