Semaglutide, the active ingredient in the obesity drug Wegovy, may have a surprising potential benefit – helping people with alcohol use disorder. A recent study conducted by researchers found that individuals taking semaglutide for weight loss experienced a significant reduction in symptoms of alcohol dependence.
Semaglutide is a synthetic version of glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1), a hormone that regulates insulin production and appetite. Originally approved for managing type 2 diabetes in 2017, it was later approved for obesity treatment in 2021. GLP-1s like semaglutide have been found to be more effective for weight loss than traditional methods such as diet and exercise or previous obesity medications.
The potential link between semaglutide and reduced alcohol dependence symptoms has sparked further interest in clinical trials. Researchers are currently conducting trials to investigate this connection more thoroughly and understand the underlying mechanisms. Studies have shown that semaglutide can lead to reduced alcohol and drug consumption in animals, and anecdotal reports have suggested that people also drink or gamble less often after starting semaglutide.
A recently published study in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry presents evidence of the reduction in alcohol-related symptoms among patients prescribed semaglutide. The researchers believe that this finding could have significant implications for the treatment of alcohol use disorder. In fact, they are conducting a randomized clinical trial specifically focused on semaglutide for patients with alcohol use disorder, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse is supporting its own trial as well.
However, it is important to note that Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of semaglutide, would need to apply for regulatory approval for any new indication, including the treatment of alcohol use disorder. While it remains uncertain whether semaglutide will become an approved treatment for this condition, current options for alcohol use disorder have limited effectiveness.
Lead author Jesse Richards emphasizes the significance of this research in understanding the potential therapeutic applications of semaglutide in addiction medicine. The promising results from the study and ongoing clinical trials could potentially lead to a new approach to treating alcohol use disorder and offer hope to individuals struggling with this condition.
