American Research Suggests Semaglutide May Help Reduce Alcohol Cravings and Consumption

A recent clinical trial conducted in the United States investigated the impact of semaglutide, a medication used to treat diabetes and obesity, on reducing alcohol consumption. The findings suggest that the use of this medication may help decrease both the craving for and the amount of alcohol consumed, opening new perspectives for the treatment of alcohol use disorder (AUD).

A new study (1) published in JAMA Psychiatry suggests that semaglutide, a drug originally developed for diabetes and obesity, may also have a positive impact on reducing alcohol consumption. The study was a phase 2 randomized clinical trial conducted in the United States, involving adults diagnosed with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The results showed that weekly doses of semaglutide helped reduce alcohol consumption and the craving for alcoholic beverages.

The study included 48 participants who were not seeking treatment for AUD. They were divided into two groups: one receiving semaglutide and the other a placebo. After nine weeks of treatment, participants who used semaglutide consumed significantly less alcohol than those in the placebo group. The study also showed a reduction in binge drinking episodes and a decrease in the desire to drink.

How Can Semaglutide Influence Alcohol Consumption?

Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), which affect appetite regulation and the brain's reward system. Preclinical studies had already suggested that GLP-1RAs could influence alcohol consumption behavior by reducing the pleasure associated with drinking.

In the clinical study, participants treated with semaglutide consumed less alcohol when subjected to a laboratory test of self-administration of alcoholic beverages. The researchers also noted that semaglutide did not directly affect the number of days participants drank, but it reduced the amount consumed per drinking day.

Possible Clinical Implications

Although the results are promising, the authors highlight that larger studies are needed to confirm the findings and assess the safety of long-term use of semaglutide for treating AUD. Currently, less than 10% of individuals with alcohol use disorder receive pharmacological treatment. If its effectiveness is confirmed, semaglutide could become a new option for people who want to reduce alcohol consumption without completely abstaining.

What Does This Mean for Those Who Want to Reduce Alcohol Consumption?

If you are concerned about your alcohol consumption pattern, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before considering any medication. The study suggests that semaglutide may help reduce alcohol consumption, but it is not a universal solution. Other approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and social support, remain essential for managing AUD.

With more research, semaglutide may represent an innovative therapeutic option in the future. For now, the best strategy for maintaining balanced alcohol consumption remains self-awareness, moderation, and professional support.

References:

1. Hendershot CS, Bremmer MP, Paladino MB, et al. Once-Weekly Semaglutide in Adults With Alcohol Use Disorder: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry. 2025. doi:10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.4789.