Caution Advised on Using Ozempic and Wegovy for Alcohol Addiction

Caution Advised on Using Ozempic and Wegovy for Alcohol Addiction

Specialists are urging caution over the use of GLP-1 drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy as a treatment for alcohol addiction, warning that these medications are not yet proven to be a safe or effective solution for curbing harmful drinking habits.

Recent findings have suggested that GLP-1 receptor agonists may have benefits in reducing cravings for alcohol, drugs, and nicotine. A Swedish study involving 228,000 individuals with alcohol dependency showed that those taking GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide were less likely to face hospitalisations linked to alcohol use. Similarly, research in animals has indicated that these medications can mitigate alcohol-seeking behaviours and binge drinking patterns. However, health experts stress that these promising results are not yet backed by sufficient clinical trials in humans.

Dr David McLaughlan, a consultant psychiatrist and addictions specialist, has warned against viewing these drugs as a “quick fix” for alcohol addiction. “While emerging evidence is encouraging, GLP-1 drugs are not licensed to treat alcohol cravings. We need further rigorous studies to ensure their safety and efficacy,” he explained. He also pointed to ongoing concerns about the unknown long-term impacts of using these medications to manage addiction.

Currently, Ozempic is licensed for managing type-2 diabetes in the UK, while Wegovy is approved for weight management in individuals with obesity. Both drugs work by mimicking a natural hormone to regulate blood sugar, delay stomach emptying, and ultimately suppress appetite. Although these mechanisms appear to influence alcohol cravings, researchers are yet to fully understand the broader implications for addiction treatment.

Dr McLaughlan emphasised that addiction is a complex issue requiring more than medication alone. The festive season, with its abundance of alcohol-related cues in social settings and media, presents unique challenges for those battling addiction. Feelings of loneliness and seasonal depression may also drive individuals to self-medicate with alcohol, further complicating recovery efforts.

While some anti-craving medications like acamprosate are already available to support those dealing with alcohol dependency, specialists insist that these treatments must be part of a broader approach addressing the underlying psychological and social factors involved.

Despite these cautions, Dr McLaughlan acknowledged the exciting potential of GLP-1 receptor agonists in revolutionising addiction treatment. A recent study published in Nature Communications observed a 50% reduction in the risk of alcohol use disorders among patients treated with semaglutide for obesity over a 12-month period.

“This is a fascinating area of development and offers great hope for the future,” Dr McLaughlan said. “But until we have robust clinical trials with specific focus on addiction, these medications should not be used as a shortcut for addressing alcohol dependency. Medical advice must always be sought, and medications should only be taken for their approved purpose.”

While the research field continues to expand, specialists are calling for patience and a cautious approach, underscoring that true recovery requires addressing both the physical and emotional roots of addiction.

Source: Express

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