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    Can GLP-1 Medications Like Ozempic Help in Addiction Treatment?

    You may have heard news reports about a recent study that explored a surprising possibility of using GLP-1 for addiction treatment. Medications used to treat diabetes and obesity might also help people struggling with substance use disorder (SUD).1 Some brand names of these medications include Ozempic, Wegovy, Rybelsus (semaglutide), Trulicity (dulaglutide), Victoza (liraglutide), and Bydureon (exenatide).

    In this study, these medications were found to potentially lower rates of opioid overdoses and alcohol-related hospital visits in people with opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). For example, researchers found that people with AUD who used Ozempic or similar medications had a 50% lower rate of bingeing on alcohol compared to those not on the medication. Similarly, people with OUD who were taking these medications had a 40% lower rate of overdose on opioids.

    While these results are exciting, more research is needed to see if these medications can treat a wide range of people with SUD. This includes examining the impact on people of different ages, genders, races, etc.

    If your loved one is struggling with opioids like heroin or having problems with heavy drinking, should they try these medications? While they have potential, they are not ready to be used as treatment for substance use disorders. Read on for more information.

    Key Takeaways

    1. A study found that people with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and opioid use disorder who took GLP-1 medications, like Ozempic, experienced a significant decrease in alcohol bingeing and overdose rates compared to those not on these medications. 
    2. The study suggests that GLP-1, typically used to treat diabetes and obesity, could be explored as a potential treatment for SUD by reducing cravings and managing substance-seeking behaviors. 
    3. It’s essential to note that these findings are based on people with obesity or type 2 diabetes, so it’s unclear if the benefits would extend to those without these conditions. Additionally, while the findings are promising, more research, including clinical trials, is needed to confirm their effectiveness for a broader range of people with SUD.

    How do these medications work?

    These medications, like Ozempic, are GLP-1 receptor agonists (RAs) that work by affecting the GLP-1 hormone. The GLP-1 hormone is released in the intestines after we eat, helping our body control blood sugar levels by signaling the pancreas to release insulin. GLP-1 receptors, which manage appetite and cravings, respond to this hormone. Ozempic mimics this hormone to tell your brain you’re full, which can help you eat less. It also increases the time it takes for food to leave your body.

    Scientists have recently found that GLP-1 receptors are also connected to parts of the brain responsible for motivation and reward, which are a key to understanding substance use disorder. This connection has led scientists to question whether these medications could reduce cravings and harmful substance use in people with SUD.

    Animal studies support these findings. GLP-1 RAs seemed to reduce cravings and addictive behaviors in lab rats.2 For example, a related study found that rats given GLP-1 RA showed a decreased desire for alcohol, while another drug, Exendin-4, seemed to reduce drug-seeking behaviors related to heroin.

    GLP-1 RAs might provide a new way to help people with SUD, particularly those who also have diabetes or obesity. Scientists are hopeful that these medications could one day be added to existing treatment options for people struggling with addiction.

    Challenges ahead

    While this research is promising, scientists caution that it’s too soon to say if GLP-1 RAs are the solution for SUD. The study above was based on medical records and only shows a link between GLP-1 RA use and reduced overdoses. It does not prove that these medications directly caused the decrease. Additionally, the study only included data from certain hospitals, which means it might not represent everyone with SUD.

    There are also practical challenges. GLP-1 RAs can be expensive, and many people face barriers to accessing treatment, especially those with SUD. If future research confirms the benefits of GLP-1 for addiction treatment, it will be important to find ways to make them affordable and accessible to people with SUD.

    What comes next?

    To find out if using GLP-1 for addiction treatment can really help people, scientists need to do more research. Future studies will likely focus on how GLP-1 RAs work in the brain to impact cravings and drug-seeking behaviors. Scientists also hope to conduct clinical trials where they can closely observe how all kinds of people with SUD respond to these medications over time.

    If these medications prove to be effective, they could become part of a comprehensive treatment plan for people with addiction, alongside other treatments like therapy, support groups and lifestyle changes.

    Finding new ways to treat SUD is important. Currently available treatments don’t work for everyone, and relapse rates are high. The possibility of using a medication originally designed for diabetes and obesity is exciting because it could provide new hope to individuals struggling with OUD or AUD. This research shows that looking at existing medications in new ways might help us find creative solutions for complex health issues like addiction.

    Should families consider these medications for a loved one?

    For family members hoping for new treatments, this research offers promising insight. However, since this study focused on people with obesity and type 2 diabetes, it’s unclear if the drugs would work the same way with a wide range of people. Families should understand that while this study is hopeful, it’s not a guaranteed solution.

    There are also side effects to consider. GLP-1s may cause dizziness, tiredness, and stomach upsets including feeling sick, vomiting, and pain or bloat.3 Patients have also reported diarrhea, excess gas and constipation. They are also not recommended for people who have certain types of cancer, gallbladder and pancreatic problems in addition to other medical issues.

    Additionally, patients tend to regain the weight they lost if they stop taking the medication. Researchers will investigate if the same pattern applies to people using GLP-1s treat addiction.

    You should also be aware that there due to the popularity of the medication, many fake versions of Ozempic, Wegovy and others are on the market.4 Med spas and online pharmacies have been warned to stop offering them, but they still pose a threat. They may contain the wrong dose or ingredients as they are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).5

    It’s important to note that we already have very effective, evidence-based medications that can treat OUD and AUD. As part of a complete treatment plan, these medications can make a huge difference in reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Always talk to your healthcare provider before making any medication choices.

    Learn more about medications for alcohol and opioids. If you need assistance in helping develop a plan for a loved one, please reach out to us. There are many treatment options and paths to recovery we can explore together.