Recent research suggests that GLP-1 drugs, known for their weight loss and diabetes management, can also be a valuable tool for treating people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Recent studies have discovered that these medications, containing the ingredients semaglutide or tirzepatide, also known as Mounjaro or Zepbound, seem to reduce hospitalizations related to alcohol use disorder (AUD).

While this research is new and ongoing, a new set of drugs to help people get sober is always welcome. While these drugs were initially meant for obesity and Type 2 diabetes, they now may offer new options for people living with alcohol use disorder.

Study Shows GLP-1 Drugs Reduce Alcohol-Related Hospitalizations

A large-scale study conducted in Sweden analyzed medical records of over 228,000 people diagnosed with AUD and found that people taking GLP-1 drugs were much less likely to be hospitalized for alcohol-related issues. (In comparison to those not using these medications.) This new research suggests that GLP-1 drugs may be a new tool to help people recover from alcohol addiction.

The study followed people with alcohol use disorder who also were living with obesity or Type 2 diabetes. It tracked hospitalizations from 2006 to 2023. During that time, roughly 60% of the people with AUD were hospitalized for alcohol-related issues. People with an unhealthy relationship with alcohol who also used GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, experienced fewer hospitalizations.

Are GLP-1 Drugs A Potential Addiction Treatment?

GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide (found in Ozempic and Wegovy) are gaining attention for their potential to treat substance use disorders, including AUD. While traditionally prescribed for weight loss and diabetes management, these drugs are now being investigated and prescribed off-label to help people reduce their drinking.

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, over 28 million adults in America meet the guidelines for having an alcohol use disorder. However, there are only three FDA-approved medications to treat AUD, and relapse rates remain high.

Experts say that there are also shortages of many of the drugs that are used to treat alcohol addiction, making the supply unstable for people who need help.

How GLP-1 Drugs Might Work for Alcohol Addiction

Doctors aren’t positive yet how these drugs work to decrease cravings for alcohol. Research into these GLP-1 medications has shown promise in animal studies, and now human trials are beginning to explore their effects on alcohol use disorder more specifically.

One possibility is that GLP-1 drugs work by inducing a feeling of satiation, similar to their effects on food cravings. This could reduce the desire for alcohol, similar to how they curb hunger. There is also the possibility that GLP-1 drugs may diminish the reward mechanism that causes alcohol misuse, making it less likely the user may drink to get drunk.

GLP-1 drugs may reduce the attraction or pleasure derived from sugary drinks, including alcoholic beverages that contain high levels of sugar.

Are There Any Safety Issues With These Meds?

Despite promising results, there are safety concerns about using GLP-1 drugs for addiction treatment. While these medications are considered safe for individuals with obesity or Type 2 diabetes, people who aren’t overweight may experience side effects that outweigh the benefits of the drug.

People who don’t need to lose weight may still experience weight loss, which can cause kidney or liver issues as well as malnutrition. People with eating disorders cannot take these drugs at all.

GLP-1 drugs have also been explored for other types of addiction, such as nicotine and opioid addiction, though results have been mixed. The most promising results so far have come from alcohol addiction studies.

A Growing Area of Research in Addiction Treatment

While only three medications are currently approved by the FDA to treat alcohol use disorder, researchers are optimistic about the potential of GLP-1 drugs as an additional treatment option.

As research into GLP-1 drugs continues, there is a growing push to explore their potential not just for alcohol addiction but also for other substance use disorders. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the efficacy and safety of these medications in addiction treatment.

A New Avenue for Addiction Treatment

GLP-1 drugs may be a great new tool to help people combat alcohol use disorder. However, nothing is one-size-fits-all. While the findings are encouraging, more research is needed to understand how these drugs work in treating addiction and to ensure their safety in broader populations.

Expanding the options available for alcohol use disorder is crucial, and GLP-1 research can help experts understand more about the disorder.

Getting Help for Addiction

If you or somebody you love is struggling with alcohol or other substance use, don’t delay. Evidence-based treatment can help you begin the process of healing and reclaiming your life. Learn more about your treatment options by calling 1-800-425-1564.