Drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy — mostly known for treating diabetes and offering weight-loss assistance — are being explored for a number of other applications, and it seems those struggling with alcohol use might benefit.
Early research in both animals and humans shows these medications may reduce cravings, make alcohol feel less rewarding and help people avoid relapses after quitting alcohol consumption, as seen in a recent review out of the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.
The animals tested reduced drinking, withdrawal symptoms and the likelihood of relapsing. Some humans also reported fewer cravings and less consumption. The drugs seem to quiet the reward circuits in the brain that make alcohol use feel good, especially in the release of dopamine— the brain’s pleasure chemical.
Unlike older medications that can make alcohol taste bad or knock you out, these drugs don’t seem to work through punishment or sedation. Instead, they subtly reduce the brain’s drive to seek alcohol.
Most human trials so far, however, involve people with diabetes or obesity. It’s not yet clear if the same benefits will apply to people of average weight who drink heavily. That’s why scientists are calling for bigger, more diverse studies.
Early signs, however, are hopeful.
In the future, GLP-1–based therapies could become one part of a toolkit, helping people cut back on drinking or to stay sober.
More like this: Obesity expert has the skinny on semaglutide
