An Ozempic Pill Was Tested on Heavy Drinkers—the Results Were Promising
Summary
Researchers tested an oral diabetes and weight-loss drug called semaglutide on adults with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study found that the drug helped reduce heavy drinking and alcohol cravings without causing weight loss, suggesting a new way to treat AUD.Key Facts
- Semaglutide is a medication originally for diabetes and weight loss, now used by many Americans.
- The study involved 50 adults with AUD and lasted eight weeks.
- Participants taking oral semaglutide drank less heavily and had fewer alcohol cravings.
- The drug’s effect on reducing drinking did not involve weight loss or changes in eating.
- Alcohol use disorder affects about 27 million adults in the U.S. as of 2024.
- No new medicines for AUD have been approved in nearly 20 years.
- Researchers believe semaglutide may work by reducing dopamine signals in the brain’s reward centers.
- Larger and longer studies are needed before semaglutide can be recommended as an AUD treatment.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
