A recent study published in JAMA Psychiatry reveals that semaglutide, the active drug in Ozempic and Wegovy, shows promise in reducing alcohol consumption among individuals with alcohol use disorder.
The study, involving 48 adults, found that weekly injections of semaglutide reduced alcohol cravings, the quantity of alcohol consumed, and the frequency of heavy drinking days compared to a placebo.
GLP-1 receptor agonists like semaglutide mimic hormones in the gut and brain to regulate appetite and feelings of fullness, potentially extending to cravings beyond food.
While the study is small and requires further research, these findings suggest that semaglutide and similar drugs could address an unmet need in treating alcohol use disorder.
Researchers emphasize the need for larger, longer-term studies to fully understand the safety and efficacy of these drugs in individuals with alcohol use disorder, particularly regarding their safety for individuals who do not need to lose weight.
These initial results are encouraging, suggesting a potential new avenue for addressing alcohol use disorder, a condition linked to significant health consequences globally.