GLP-1 receptor agonists are promising but unproven treatments for alcohol and substance use disorders
Research output: Contribution to journal › Comment/debate › Research › peer-review
The development and rapid clinical adoption of potent and long-lasting glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) is quickly changing the landscape of diabetes and obesity treatment. In particular, semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus) has attracted attention among the general public for its remarkable effects on weight loss. The explosive growth of its use in clinical practice has been accompanied by an important ancillary finding: frequent anecdotal reports of reductions in alcohol use and other addictive behaviors. These observations, which we have heard ourselves from patients and providers, are being amplified by media and public attention and have led to discussions about potential clinical applications of semaglutide and other GLP-1RAs for addictive disorders, especially alcohol use disorder (AUD). We write as leaders of clinical trials currently underway in North America and Europe to evaluate the efficacy of semaglutide for AUD to encourage clinicians and patients to be prudent and avoid placing supposition before science.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Nature Medicine |
Volume | 29 |
Issue number | 12 |
Pages (from-to) | 2993-2995 |
Number of pages | 3 |
ISSN | 1078-8956 |
DOIs |
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Publication status | Published - 2023 |
ID: 377950036