Medications like Ozempic could offer new hope for treating addiction

(CN) — Medications like Ozempic, known for helping people manage diabetes and lose weight, might also be key players in the fight against addiction.

According to a study published Thursday in Addiction Journal — a peer-reviewed scientific journal — researchers have found that these drugs, called GLP-1 receptor agonists, are linked to lower rates of opioid overdoses and alcohol intoxication in people struggling with substance use disorders.

The study, led by Fares Qeadan, an associate professor of biostatistics at Loyola University Chicago, looked at a large population of people with opioid and alcohol use disorders.

He and two other scientists analyzed data from 503,747 individuals with opioid use disorder and 817,309 with alcohol use disorder and determined GLP-1 receptor agonists had consistent protective effects across different groups.

They found that those who took Ozempic or similar medications had significantly lower rates of severe outcomes.

People with opioid use disorders who were prescribed GLP-1 receptor agonists had a 40% lower chance of experiencing an overdose. Similarly, those with alcohol use disorders saw a 50% drop in alcohol intoxication rates.

These protective effects were strongest in the general population, but the benefits also applied to individuals with type 2 diabetes or obesity, two groups that are more commonly prescribed these medications.

“These findings could represent a new approach for individuals facing challenges with conventional treatments,” Qeadan said in an email. “If further studies confirm these effects, GLP-1 receptor agonists could become part of a broader treatment strategy.”

The science behind it comes down to how these medications work in the brain. The drugs target the brain’s reward system — the mesolimbic system — which influences cravings and addictive behaviors.

“These medications target receptors in the brain areas associated with reward, motivation, and satiety — modulating pathways that influence cravings and addictive behaviors,” Qeadan said.

According to the researchers, by altering these pathways, the drugs reduce cravings and might help lower the risk of relapse. This could be a game-changer for people battling opioid or alcohol use disorders.

However, like any medication, there are risks. While GLP-1 drugs are generally considered safe, they can cause complications for people with certain health conditions.

“These medications may pose risks for some patients, particularly those with gastrointestinal or pancreatic conditions,” Qeadan said. “Any off-label use in treating substance use disorders should be closely monitored by health care professionals.”

As new research continues, he hopes this research will pave the way for transformative changes in addiction treatment and ultimately save lives.

“This interconnected view of addiction pathways is an exciting frontier in addiction medicine that we hope will continue to gain traction,” Qeadan said**.**