GLP-1 Reduces Heavy Drinking in Clinical Trial

A randomized controlled clinical trial demonstrated that a GLP-1 receptor agonist, semaglutide, reduced heavy drinking days in patients with alcohol use disorder and obesity. Participants receiving semaglutide alongside cognitive behavioral therapy experienced a 41.1% reduction in heavy drinking days, a 13. 7% greater reduction than the placebo group.

Blood-alcohol biomarkers corroborated the self-reported data. The study noted a number needed to treat (NNT) of 4.3 for semaglutide, which is lower than the NNT of 7 or higher for currently approved medications for alcohol use disorder.

Adverse effects, primarily gastrointestinal symptoms, were reported but were transient and mild. This research suggests a potential new therapeutic option for alcohol use disorder, particularly in patients with comorbid obesity.

Further research is planned to examine the effects of GLP-1s over longer durations and in larger populations.