Semaglutide, Found in Ozempic and Wegovy, Shows Promise in Reducing Alcohol Consumption and Cravings in Clinical Trial

A clinical trial indicates that semaglutide, the active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, may reduce alcohol consumption and cravings. The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, involved 48 participants with alcohol use disorder who weren't actively seeking treatment. Participants receiving weekly semaglutide injections showed a roughly 40% decrease in alcohol consumption and cravings compared to the placebo group. The semaglutide group also experienced a 41% reduction in the number of drinks consumed on drinking days. Nearly 40% of the semaglutide group reported no heavy drinking days in the last month of treatment, compared to 20% in the placebo group. Researchers note that the effects of semaglutide appear greater than those of existing alcoholism treatments, even at low doses. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and assess the long-term safety and efficacy of semaglutide for alcohol use disorder.