Researchers at Oklahoma State University in the United States have explored a surprising possibility: weight loss medications like Ozempic may also aid in treating alcohol use disorders (AUD). The findings appeared in a peer‑reviewed psychiatric journal, signaling a potential new avenue for addiction therapy.
Medications such as Ozempic and Wegovy contain semaglutide, a glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonist. Semaglutide works by curbing appetite, slowing stomach emptying, and boosting insulin response, which helps with weight management and blood glucose control. In everyday use, these drugs are valued for reducing hunger and supporting metabolic health.
Some individuals taking semaglutide‑based therapies reported an unexpected side effect: a diminished craving not only for high‑calorie foods but also for alcohol. This observation prompted researchers to investigate whether the active ingredient might influence alcohol consumption or dependence directly. A small study was conducted with six participants who had alcohol use concerns and were being treated with semaglutide‑type medications.
Across the study, clinicians tracked changes in alcohol-related behaviors and symptoms. The participants were assessed with the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), a validated screening tool for alcohol use problems. On average, AUDIT scores decreased by 9.5 points after initiating treatment, indicating a meaningful reduction in alcohol‑related risk behaviors. Lower scores correspond to fewer problematic drinking patterns, while higher scores reflect more severe alcohol‑related issues.
The authors of the study noted that these results could represent an early step toward expanding the therapeutic applications of semaglutide beyond weight management and metabolic health. If replicated in larger samples, this line of research might lead to new strategies for addressing AUD with medications that have established safety profiles for other conditions.
Experts caution that the findings are preliminary. They emphasize the need for larger, controlled trials to confirm whether semaglutide or related GLP‑1 receptor agonists consistently reduce alcohol cravings and consumption, and to determine which patient populations could benefit most. While the results are promising, clinicians should weigh potential benefits against known side effects and individual patient circumstances when considering any off‑label uses.
In the broader landscape, this work aligns with ongoing investigations into how metabolic pathways influence addictive behaviors. The potential to repurpose existing medicines for AUD could offer new options for people who struggle with cravings and relapse, especially when traditional therapies do not yield lasting results. As research progresses, clinicians and patients may gain additional choices that complement behavioral therapies, counseling, and psychosocial support.
References and future updates will help clarify the role of semaglutide in treating alcohol use disorders and may inform guidelines for clinical practice. Ongoing studies aim to identify effective dosing strategies, treatment durations, and combinations with other therapies to maximize benefit while minimizing risks. As with all medical advances, patient safety and individualized care remain the guiding priorities.
Researchers and healthcare professionals continue to monitor the evolving evidence base. The question remains: could a drug once prescribed for weight loss also become a tool in the fight against alcohol addiction? Preliminary results suggest there is potential, and ongoing work will determine whether semaglutide can play a broader part in addiction medicine.