GLP-1 medicines such as Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound are widely used to treat diabetes and obesity. These drugs not only act on digestion and appetite, but have also shown potential for treating cardiovascular disease, heart failure, sleep apnea, and kidney disease. In this context, research on the use of GLP-1 in addiction has begun to gain momentum. Recent related studies indicate that these medications can help reduce the likelihood of developing substance use disorders, as well as decrease mortality to these conditions. With the increase in clinical trials, promising results are expected in the treatment of alcohol use disorder. “If these drugs prove to be safe and effective for treating substance use disorder, given their widespread use for other reasons in our society, they would automatically become, de facto, the most prescribed drug therapy for addiction,” predicts Dr. W. Kyle Simmons, professor of pharmacology and physiology at Oklahoma State University, according to statements reported by CNN. Study Results: Research using Department of Veterans Affairs databases revealed that patients using GLP-1 medications have lower rates of substance use disorder diagnoses. One study mentioned indicated a significant reduction in drug-related deaths among those already suffering from such a disorder. Need for Controlled Trials: Although the initial findings are encouraging, experts caution about the need for randomized controlled trials. to validate these results. There are concerns about the nature of patients who begin GLP-1 treatment and their motivation to change behaviors. Further studies are needed to understand the safety and long-term effects of these drugs in the context of addiction.

Although the death rate from drug overdoses has been declining, in 2024 it was the cause of more than 79,000 deaths in the US, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), so it continues to represent a public health problem.

Side effects of GLP-1 medications

GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide or Ozempic, are primarily used for diabetes and obesity,but show potential in reducing addictions to alcohol or other substances by modulating appetite and brain rewards.

Gastrointestinal effects. The most common long-term effects include persistent nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and gastroparesis (gastric paralysis), which can affect treatment adherence and quality of life, although they usually decrease over time.

Pancreatic and renal risks.

They are associated with a higher risk of pancreatitis (up to 9 times higher than other drugs) and kidney disease, which can progress silently; continuous monitoring of kidney function is recommended.

Impact on addictions. In patients with addictions, they reduce suicidal ideation, self-harm, and disorders such as bulimia or psychosis, with neurological benefits observed in studies of more than 2 million people; However, specific very long-term data on interactions are lacking.

Other risks. Possible cardiovascular problems (although with net benefits in some), dehydration due to GI effects, and concerns about overall safety due to industry funding of studies; The WHO warns of frequent digestive symptoms.

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