2 weeks Ago By Amy Packer
As the festive season approaches, with alcohol often taking centre stage, a leading UK psychiatrist is cautioning against seeking out drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy to curb harmful drinking behaviour and tackle alcohol addiction. Recent research highlights the potential benefits of GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs - prescribed under the brand names Ozempic and Wegovy - in reducing cravings for alcohol, drugs and nicotine. In one Swedish study of almost 228,000 people with alcohol dependency issues , it was found that those taking GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide were less likely to be hospitalised for alcohol-related issues.
However, Dr David McLaughlan , a consultant psychiatrist and addictions specialist at Priory and co-founder of Curb.health , warns against seeing this as a 'quick fix' solution. “Currently, GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic are not licensed to treat alcohol cravings,” he says.
“While emerging evidence suggests they might be effective, we need more robust clinical trials to ensure their safety and that the benefits outweigh any side effects.” While many know Ozempic as a “weight loss jab” this is incorrect - it is actually licensed to manage type-2 diabetes. It works by mimicking the GLP-1 hormone to regulate blood sugar levels, increase insulin production, decrease glucose production by the liver and delay stomach emptying, which can ultimately reduce appetite and lead to weight loss.
Wegovy is licensed in the UK for weight management in the obese. Now, animal studies showed that this class of drugs can reduce alcohol-seeking behaviour, decrease alcohol intake, and mitigate binge drinking patterns. Now, emerging clinical studies suggest these medications may reduce alcohol cravings and consumption in humans too.
However, Dr McLaughlan points out the lack of research on the long-term impact of these drugs on alcohol consumption. “We cannot be sure if they are a safe and effective option for treating addiction issues. Therefore, I urge those with alcohol addiction not to consider these drugs as a treatment or a viable long-term solution.
“This time of year can be particularly challenging for those with harmful drinking habits and addiction,” he adds. “We are bombarded with social triggers and cues to drink, with alcohol featuring heavily in advertising and media campaigns. Social events like Christmas parties and seasonal traditions also heavily feature alcohol, presenting new challenges for those who may have successfully quit drinking.
” Additionally, many people feel lonely during this time of year or experience seasonal affective disorder and low mood. For some, these difficult emotions might drive them to self-medicate with alcohol, even though it causes further depression and isolation in the long term. “There is no quick fix for addiction, whether alcohol or otherwise,” Dr McLaughlan emphasises.
“While medications like anti-craving medication acamprosate can help reduce desire for alcohol and prevent relapse, even this should never be considered the first and best approach. It’s crucial to address any underlying psychological or social factors driving an unhealthy relationship with alcohol.” Despite this, Dr McLaughlan says the emerging evidence for GLP-1 receptor agonists for addiction is promising and has the potential to revolutionise addiction treatment in the future.
Recent findings published in the May 2024 edition of Nature Communications highlighted a study of 83,825 patients treated with semaglutide for obesity, showing a 50% reduction in the risk of alcohol use disorders at their 12-month follow-up. “As an addiction psychiatrist, this is extremely exciting,” Dr McLaughlan adds. “However, I urge people to always consult with their doctor and only take medication for its intended purpose.
The highest levels of research, including randomised control trials with the intended use populations, have not yet taken place. Only after further robust clinical research can we be confident that these treatments are safe and effective for alcohol use disorders. For now though, it’s an exciting space to watch.
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