A new study has found that semaglutide, a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes, may also help reduce alcohol cravings and heavy drinking days in people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study, published in the journal, involved 48 adults with AUD who were not seeking treatment. Participants received either semaglutide or a placebo over 9 weeks, and researchers measured their weekly drinking patterns during the study period.
The results showed that participants who received semaglutide experienced a significant reduction in alcohol cravings, heavy drinking days, and overall amount of drinking. In fact, about 40% of the group reported no heavy drinking days in the last month of treatment. The study also found that this effect was greater than what is typically seen with existing AUD medications.
Additionally, participants who were also cigarette smokers treated with semaglutide showed a significant reduction in their average cigarettes per day compared to those receiving the placebo.
Experts are hailing this study as promising and potentially life-changing for individuals struggling with AUD. Dr. Klara Klein, lead author of the study, says that semaglutide may fill an unmet need for treating AUD. However, more research is needed to confirm the long-term effectiveness, optimal dosing, and safety of this medication in patients with severe alcohol dependency.
Representatives from organizations that provide addiction treatment are also excited about this new development, citing its potential to increase accessibility and acceptance of treatment options. While there are limitations to the study, such as a small sample size and short duration, experts agree that further research is needed to fully understand the benefits of semaglutide in treating AUD.
The study’s findings have significant implications for the treatment of AUD, which affects millions of people worldwide. With its potential to reduce cravings and heavy drinking days, semaglutide may provide a new hope for individuals struggling with this devastating condition.
Source: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/ozempic-wegovy-curb-alcohol-cravings-heavy-drinking