Ozempic^® Reduces Alcohol Cravings by 40% in First Clinical Trial

A new clinical trial suggests Ozempic^®, a drug known for managing type 2 diabetes and weight loss, could have another unexpected benefit — reducing alcohol cravings. According to researchers, participants who received a low-dose injection of semaglutide, Ozempic's active ingredient, consumed 40% less alcohol than those given a placebo, as reported by PEOPLE.

What the Study Found

The trial, published in JAMA Psychiatry, involved 48 adults with moderate alcohol-use disorder. Half were given semaglutide weekly for nine weeks, while the other half received a placebo. To assess drinking habits, participants were placed in a relaxed setting with a stocked bar and encouraged to drink as much as they wanted — within a safe limit set by researchers.

Researchers noted that those on Ozempic reported fewer cravings, and when they did drink, they consumed less. This effect was even more pronounced in a subgroup that also smoked cigarettes, suggesting semaglutide might reduce other addictive behaviors.

How Does Ozempic Affect Alcohol Consumption?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of drugs called GLP-1 receptor agonists, which regulate blood sugar, slow digestion, and increase feelings of fullness. While primarily used for diabetes and weight loss, these drugs also impact the brain's reward system, potentially reducing cravings for alcohol and other addictive substances.

Previous research on animals suggested semaglutide lowers alcohol intake. An observational study published in November 2024 found that people taking the drug had a significantly lower rate of alcohol-related hospitalizations.

Could This Be a Game Changer?

Alcohol-use disorder (AUD) affects nearly 30 million Americans, but less than 2% receive treatment with existing FDA-approved medications. If further studies confirm the effectiveness of GLP-1 drugs for AUD, they could provide a new treatment option with significant health benefits.

Novo Nordisk, the manufacturer of Ozempic, has already announced plans to study the drug's potential in treating alcohol-related liver disease. Meanwhile, Eli Lilly, which makes similar medications, is also exploring their effects on addiction-related behaviors.

Limitations and What's Next

While the study's results are promising, researchers acknowledge its limitations. The trial had a small sample size, and the treatment period lasted only nine weeks. Larger, long-term studies are needed to determine whether Ozempic and similar drugs can be widely used for alcohol-use disorder.

Additionally, the study did not find that Ozempic reduced the number of drinking days — only that it decreased the amount consumed on drinking days. This could indicate that while the drug may help curb binge drinking, it may not necessarily promote total abstinence.

Experts agree that more research is needed to understand how GLP-1 receptor agonists affect alcohol consumption in different populations, especially among heavy drinkers. Early findings suggest these medications could be a valuable tool in the fight against alcohol addiction.

Final Thoughts

Ozempic's ability to reduce alcohol cravings could have profound implications for addiction treatment. While more research is required, the findings provide hope for new, effective treatments for alcohol-use disorders. With pharmaceutical companies now prioritizing addiction research, the next few years could bring significant breakthroughs in understanding how these drugs impact cravings and consumption.

For now, those considering Ozempic for alcohol reduction should consult their healthcare provider, as the drug is not yet approved for treating alcohol-use disorder.

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References: Ozempic 'Significantly' Lowered 'Alcohol Craving' in First Clinical Trial, with Those Taking the Drug Drinking 40% Less | Ozempic Shown to Reduce Drinking in First Trial in Alcohol-Use Disorder | Ozempic's Active Ingredient May Reduce Alcohol Cravings, Study Says