Semaglutide could curb alcohol cravings

A new study has found that semaglutide, the active ingredient used in drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, may help reduce alcohol cravings, offering hope for treating alcohol use disorder alongside diabetes and obesity.

The study, published in JAMA Psychiatry, analysed the health records of over 228,000 people in Sweden and found a 36% lower risk of alcohol-related hospitalisation among those taking semaglutide. A similar drug, liraglutide, used in Saxenda and Victoza, showed a 28% reduction.

Semaglutide is a medication used to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. It mimics a natural hormone in the body called GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1), which helps regulate blood sugar, insulin levels and appetite.

Researchers suggest these drugs may influence dopamine, the brain's pleasure chemical, making addictive behaviours like excessive drinking less rewarding. While the findings are promising, experts stress more trials are needed before GLP-1 drugs can be formally recommended for treating alcohol dependence.