A 2026 randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that semaglutide significantly reduced heavy drinking among patients with moderate to severe alcohol use disorder and comorbid obesity.
The glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist (GLP-1) also improved secondary alcohol-related outcomes and biomarkers of liver health.
Alcohol use disorder is a chronic brain disorder responsible for 5% of global deaths annually, yet only three medications are approved for its treatment. Researchers highlighted the potential of GLP-1s to target reward pathways and appetite regulation.
In the 26-week study, 108 participants received weekly semaglutide (2.4 mg) or placebo, plus up to 10 cognitive behavioral therapy sessions. Semaglutide reduced heavy drinking days by 13.7 percentage points more than placebo, and decreased overall alcohol consumption and cravings.
While findings are promising, the study population was predominantly white, limiting generalizability. Researchers called for more diverse trials with longer follow-ups.