GLP-1 drugs hold promise for treating substance addiction

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Source: BMJ

Original: http://www.bmj.com/content/392/bmj.s417.short?rss=1...

Published: 2026-03-05T02:36:13-08:00

GLP-1 drugs, as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, have been developed to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity.[1][3] People taking these drugs often describe a quieting of the "food noise," or persistent thoughts about food.[original content] Patients report a loss of cravings for alcohol, nicotine, and illegal drugs after taking them, making it easier to quit smoking or drinking.[original content][1][5] Studies show that users had up to a 40% lower risk of opioid overdose and up to a 50% lower risk of drunkenness compared to those who took the drugs. they did not use.[1][4] A pilot study with 20 obese participants showed that GLP-1 agonists slow the absorption of alcohol into the blood, resulting in a slower rise in alcohol levels and less drunkenness.[2] These drugs act on reward mechanisms in the brain, including dopamine pathways, thereby reducing the desire for addictive substances such as alcohol, opiates, cocaine, and nicotine.[1][3] Scientists are investigating their potential in the treatment of various addictions.[1][2][3]