The active ingredient in weight-loss medications such as “Ozempic,” “Wegovy,” and “Mounjaro,” semaglutide, may have an impact on reducing alcohol consumption, according to new research.
Researchers from the University of North Carolina studied 48 individuals with alcohol dependence over nine weeks. They found that 40% of those who used semaglutide stopped binge drinking, compared to only 20% of those who took a placebo. Additionally, participants using semaglutide reduced their alcohol consumption by 30% compared to their previous intake.
The study also showed that those on semaglutide drank half as much alcohol as the placebo group. However, only a small percentage of smokers in the study reduced their daily cigarette consumption by 10%.
The impact of semaglutide on alcohol cravings has also been supported by previous animal studies. A 2024 study showed that people taking this medication were less likely to require medical assistance due to alcohol-related issues.
Nevertheless, researchers emphasized the need for broader studies to fully understand the effects.
Initially developed to treat diabetes and for weight loss, the medications “Ozempic” and “Wegovy” have recently gained attention for their potential to have other health benefits. Scientists are now exploring whether these drugs could stabilize mental health, improve memory, and possibly have a positive impact on conditions like Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, and anxiety disorders.
Source: https://cnbc.mn/news/h2k54
