Ozempic Might Help You Drink Less Alcohol
- Nicholas DiBella
- Published: January 1, 2025
- Updated: January 1, 2025
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic (semaglutide) and Wegovy have proven their effectiveness in managing weight and blood sugar levels. However, emerging evidence suggests they may offer additional benefits, including a surprising potential to reduce alcohol consumption. In this article we’ll explore how GLP-1 agonists might help you drink less and what the current research says.
How GLP-1 Agonists Work
GLP-1 agonists, or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, are a class of medications originally developed to manage type 2 diabetes. These medications, such as Ozempic (semaglutide), Wegovy, and Mounjaro (tirzepatide), work by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone, which plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels, appetite, and even cravings.
Current Research & Studies
While GLP-1 agonists are FDA-approved for diabetes and obesity, ongoing research suggests they might also influence alcohol consumption by affecting reward pathways in the brain.
Scientists hypothesize that this effect could stem from the medications’ ability to diminish dopamine release while eating and drinking, which reduces cravings and appetite.
In a 2023 study published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation Insight, researchers observed that GLP-1 agonists reduced alcohol intake in rodents. Specifically, this study found a significant reduction in binge drinking, which is an important risk factor in developing alcohol use disorder.
While human studies are still limited, anecdotal reports from patients taking GLP-1 medications for weight loss or diabetes management often mention a decreased interest in alcohol.
Some studies have also found that the use of GLP-1 agonists can even have a beneficial effect on fatty liver disease. For more on this topic, check out The Sanctuary’s article about how GLP-1 medications like semaglutide can help with fatty liver disease.
About Alcohol Use: Symptoms, Treatment, Outlook
Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a chronic condition characterized by an inability to control alcohol consumption despite negative consequences. Symptoms include strong cravings, withdrawal symptoms, and a tolerance requiring higher consumption to achieve the same effects. Left untreated, AUD can lead to liver damage, heart problems, mental health issues, and a reduced quality of life.
Traditional treatments for AUD often include behavioral therapies, support groups, and medications like naltrexone or disulfiram. However, these treatments do not work for everyone, and relapse rates can be high. The potential for GLP-1 agonists to offer an additional avenue of treatment is an exciting prospect for individuals struggling with AUD.
Can I Get GLP-1 Medications for Alcohol Use?
Currently, GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic are only FDA-approved for treating diabetes and obesity. However, some healthcare providers may prescribe these medications off-label based on individual patient needs. If you’re taking a GLP-1 agonist for weight loss or diabetes, the potential reduction in alcohol cravings might be an added benefit.
With more research, GLP-1 agonists could one day be approved for treating AUD or other conditions. In the meantime, The Sanctuary Wellness Institute offers telehealth services, enabling patients to consult with knowledgeable doctors about whether GLP-1 medications are right for them. While we currently prescribe GLP-1 medications for weight loss and diabetes management, we stay informed on emerging research and can help guide you through your options.
Conclusion
GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy are groundbreaking medications that go beyond managing weight and blood sugar levels. Preliminary evidence suggests they might also help reduce alcohol consumption by targeting the brain’s reward pathways. While these medications are not yet approved for treating AUD, their potential to support healthier habits is promising.
The Sanctuary Wellness Institute offers telehealth prescriptions for GLP-1 agonists, providing you with access to effective treatments and expert guidance. Speak with our doctors today to learn if GLP-1 medications can help you achieve your health goals.
States Where We Offer Weight Loss Drug Perceptions
How we reviewed this article:
- Vicky Chuong, Mehdi Farokhnia, Sophia Khom, Claire L. Pince, Sophie K. Elvig, Roman Vlkolinsky, Renata C.N. Marchette, George F. Koob, Marisa Roberto, Leandro F. Vendruscolo, and Lorenzo Leggio (2023). The glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) analogue semaglutide reduces alcohol drinking and modulates central GABA neurotransmission
https://insight.jci.org/articles/view/170671 - Sara M. Nehring; Richard J. Chen; Andrew M. Freeman (2024). Alcohol Use Disorder
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK436003/ - Dharminder Singh; Abdolreza Saadabadi (2023). Naltrexone
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534811/ - Maranda Stokes; Preeti Patel; Sara Abdijadid (2024). Disulfiram
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459340/
Current Version
January 01, 2025
Written By
Nicholas DiBella
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Nicholas DiBella received his psychology degree from West Chester University of Pennsylvania and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2023. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
