Active ingredient in Ozempic shows early promise for treating alcohol use disorder
Summary
A medicine called semaglutide, the main ingredient in popular weight-loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, may help reduce heavy drinking in people who have obesity and alcohol use disorder. In a study, those who took semaglutide had 41% fewer heavy drinking days compared to those given a placebo.Key Facts
- The study involved 108 adults with both obesity and alcohol use disorder trying to reduce drinking.
- Participants were split into two groups: one received weekly semaglutide shots, the other a placebo, for six months.
- Semaglutide belongs to a drug class called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which help control blood sugar and reduce appetite.
- People taking semaglutide reduced heavy drinking days by 41%, while the placebo group reduced by 26%.
- Alcohol use was measured and confirmed with blood tests.
- Semaglutide also helped reduce alcohol cravings, total drinking, weight, and improved blood sugar control.
- Side effects were mild to moderate digestive issues, similar to other uses of GLP-1 drugs.
- This is the first major study testing GLP-1 drugs for alcohol use disorder in people actively seeking treatment.
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