Veterans to Join Nationwide VA Alcohol Addiction Trial: Here's Where
Summary
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has started a national clinical trial to see if semaglutide, a drug used for diabetes and weight loss, can help treat alcohol addiction among veterans. The trial will involve over 600 veterans across 18 VA medical centers and will study the drug’s effects on alcohol use over 24 weeks.Key Facts
- More than 400,000 U.S. veterans are diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD).
- The trial is called the Cessation or Reduction of Alcohol Consumption in Veterans.
- Semaglutide is the active ingredient in medications like Ozempic, which act on hormones affecting blood sugar, appetite, and brain reward.
- Over 600 veterans aged 18 to 80 with moderate or severe AUD will participate.
- Participants will get weekly injections of semaglutide or a placebo for 24 weeks.
- The trial began recruiting veterans on July 28 and will track drinking habits, health, and quality of life.
- Earlier studies suggested veterans using GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide had lower rates of substance disorders and hospital visits, but controlled trials are needed to confirm effects.
- Veterans are advised not to self-medicate with these drugs and should speak with VA health providers before changing treatments.
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