Active ingredient in Ozempic, Wegovy shows early promise for treating alcohol use disorder among those with obesity: Study

A groundbreaking new study has found that the active ingredient in popular weight-loss drugs may also have the potential to reduce alcohol use in individuals with obesity and alcohol use disorder. The study, conducted by researchers from Mental Health Center Copenhagen in Denmark, involved 108 adults who were actively seeking to cut back on their drinking.

The participants were divided into two groups, with one group receiving a weekly shot of semaglutide, a medication that falls under the class of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1s), while the other group received a placebo. In addition to the medication, all participants also took part in therapy designed to help reduce drinking.

Semaglutide is commonly prescribed under brand names such as Ozempic and Wegovy and is known to help produce more insulin, control blood sugar levels, and aid in weight loss when combined with diet and exercise. In this study, researchers found that semaglutide was effective in reducing heavy drinking days by about 41% compared to 26% in the placebo group. These results were confirmed through blood tests measuring alcohol intake levels.

Dr. Pessah-Polluck, an endocrinologist at NYU Langone Health, noted the significance of this study, stating that semaglutide may be more effective than any currently FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder. Alcohol use disorder is a serious global health issue, causing approximately 5% of deaths worldwide. In the United States, an estimated 3% of adults with obesity report heavy alcohol use, putting them at an increased risk of liver disease.

Currently, there are only three medications approved in the U.S. to treat alcohol use disorder: naltrexone, acamprosate, and disulfiram. This study is the first randomized controlled trial to test GLP-1 drugs in individuals actively seeking treatment for alcohol use disorder.

The researchers noted that participants taking semaglutide not only reduced their alcohol consumption but also experienced lower alcohol cravings, weight loss, and improved blood sugar control. While the study was relatively small and focused on individuals with obesity, the results are promising for the potential use of GLP-1 drugs in treating alcohol use disorder.

Side effects of the medication were mild and temporary, primarily gastrointestinal issues commonly associated with GLP-1 use for other health conditions. The researchers believe that the mechanism by which GLP-1s improve drinking behavior may involve regulating metabolic and reward pathways, similar to how the medication aids in weight loss.

Further research is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms of how GLP-1s impact drinking behavior. However, this study provides valuable insights into the potential of semaglutide and other GLP-1 drugs in helping individuals with obesity and alcohol use disorder reduce their alcohol consumption and improve their overall health. There is still much work to be done in understanding the mechanisms at play in certain populations when it comes to combating drug abuse and obesity, according to Fink-Jensen. The findings of a recent study show promising results, indicating that certain compounds may be effective in treating various forms of substance abuse beyond just alcohol, and not limited to obese patients.

However, Pessah-Polluck warns of the potential dangers associated with non-regulated forms of these drugs, particularly due to their high cost which may lead patients to seek cheaper alternatives. These unregulated formulations can pose risks such as inconsistent dosing, impurities, and undisclosed additives, putting patients at risk of unknown side effects.

It is crucial to ensure that patients have access to FDA-approved medications to minimize these risks and ensure their safety. The distribution of medications must be closely monitored to prevent the use of potentially harmful compounds. The data on the effectiveness of these drugs is only as reliable as the quality and regulation of the medications being prescribed.

In conclusion, while there is promise in the use of certain compounds to combat drug abuse and obesity, it is essential to prioritize patient safety by providing access to regulated medications. By doing so, we can better protect patients from potential risks associated with non-regulated formulations and ensure the efficacy of treatment plans.

Grace Hagan M.D., an internal medicine resident at Mayo Clinic and a member of the ABC News Medical Unit, emphasizes the importance of safe and regulated medication distribution to promote patient well-being and effective treatment outcomes.