GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may reduce the risk of violent criminal behavior among current users, suggesting these medications could work like “cognitive behavioral therapy,” according to a peer-reviewed study by Rutgers University researchers published in Criminology on Wednesday.
The study suggested these medications could work like "cognitive behavioral therapy." (Photo by Steve Christo - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)
Corbis via Getty Images
Researchers found the link between impulsivity and violent behavior was 62% weaker among current GLP-1 users compared with former users, and the link between alcohol use and violent behavior was 52% weaker among current GLP-1 users.
Participants in the survey self-reported violent behavior, which included acts such as fighting, assault and robbery.
The researchers analyzed data from a 2025 study of 7,521 U.S. adults, focusing on 821 individuals who had ever used a GLP-1 medication.
Christopher Thomas, an assistant professor of criminal justice at Rutgers University - Camden and coauthor of the study, said the findings are “consistent with these medications working like cognitive behavioral therapy, weakening the path from impulse to action rather than eliminating impulsivity itself.”
The researchers said the findings are not causal and urged more research into whether GLP-1s reduce the risk of violence. Daniel Semenza, lead author of the study and director of research at the New Jersey Gun Violence Research Center at the Rutgers School of Public Health, said it is important to continue studying the impact of GLP-1 medications on users’ behavior and public safety as the medications become more widespread.
GLP-1s, originally approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat diabetes, and then obesity, have been linked to more potential health benefits as their usage has exploded. Some versions of GLP-1s have been approved to treat conditions like sleep apnea, severe liver disease, kidney disease and to reduce the risk of heart attacks. Some studies have indicated using GLP-1s may reduce alcohol cravings and the risk of developing substance abuse disorders. GLP-1s have been linked to various side effects, including nausea, fatigue and gastrointestinal symptoms. In March, the FDA issued a warning to Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk, accusing it of failing to report some serious side effects that may be linked to the drug, including three deaths and suicidal ideation.
GLP-1 medication usage has grown rapidly in recent years. An October Gallup survey found GLP-1 usage for weight loss had more than doubled since early 2024, with just over 12% of respondents saying they had used a GLP-1 for that purpose. GLP-1 medications have also developed rapidly, with Novo Nordisk securing approval for a pill form of Wegovy, the first oral GLP-1 medication, in December.
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