Key Takeaways:

• New research indicates that semaglutide, an active ingredient in Ozempic and Wegovy, may significantly reduce alcohol cravings.
• A study with 48 participants showed that those taking semaglutide drank nearly 30% less alcohol on drinking days.
• About 40% of participants on semaglutide reported no heavy drinking days compared to 20% on a placebo.
• The drug also showed a potential to reduce cigarette use among smokers in the study.
• Experts suggest that more extensive studies are needed to confirm safety and effectiveness, especially for those not seeking weight loss.

Research published in ABC News and Forbes indicates that semaglutide, a medication commonly used for diabetes and weight management, shows promise in helping to curb alcohol consumption among individuals with alcohol use disorder. The study, published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, involved 48 adults aged 21 to 65 who met criteria for alcohol use disorder but were not actively seeking treatment. Half of the participants received semaglutide injections, while the other half were given a placebo over a nine-week period.

According to researchers, participants on semaglutide reported a significant reduction in their drinking, with nearly 40% indicating they had no days of heavy drinking as opposed to just 20% in the placebo group. Additionally, those receiving the active drug consumed roughly half the amount of alcohol in a controlled setting during end-of-study evaluations. Lead author Christian Hendershot noted, “The results add to a growing body of evidence indicating that semaglutide may influence not only eating habits but also behaviors related to substance use,” as highlighted in LA Times.

The mechanism behind this effect is still being explored, but scientists suspect semaglutide may alter the brain's reward system while increasing feelings of fullness, subsequently making alcohol less attractive. Previous studies support its utility in managing other addictions, with indications that semaglutide can reduce nicotine cravings as well. However, experts call for caution, stressing that further research with larger participant pools is essential to establish the safety and efficacy of semaglutide for addiction treatment, particularly for those who do not need to lose weight.

Overall, the findings from this investigation offer significant hope for developing new strategies to address addiction, highlighting the potential of existing weight loss medications as tools to help combat alcohol dependency.