A new study suggests that semaglutide — the active ingredient in popular medications like Ozempic and Wegovy — may help reduce heavy drinking in people with obesity and alcohol use disorder.
Study Findings
Researchers at the Mental Health Center Copenhagen studied 108 adults diagnosed with both conditions. Participants received either weekly semaglutide injections or a placebo over six months, alongside therapy aimed at reducing alcohol use.
Results, published in The Lancet, showed that those taking semaglutide reduced heavy drinking days by about 41%, compared to 26% in the placebo group. Blood tests confirmed lower alcohol intake among those using the drug.
How It Works
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which help regulate blood sugar and appetite. Researchers believe it may also influence brain reward pathways tied to addiction, potentially reducing cravings for alcohol.
Participants taking the drug also experienced weight loss and improved blood sugar control.
Limited Options, New Potential
Currently, only three medications — naltrexone, acamprosate and disulfiram — are approved in the U.S. to treat alcohol use disorder. This study is the first randomized trial to test GLP-1 drugs in patients actively seeking to reduce drinking.
Experts say the findings could signal a major step forward, though more research is needed to confirm results in broader populations.
Cautions and Next Steps
Researchers emphasized the study’s limitations, including its small size and focus on individuals with obesity. Side effects were consistent with prior use of semaglutide, mainly mild digestive issues.
Health experts also warned against using unregulated or compounded versions of these drugs, citing potential risks with dosing and unknown ingredients.
While still early, the findings point to a promising new direction for treating alcohol use disorder — especially when combined with behavioral therapy.
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