The research found that these commonly used drugs resulted in a 50% reduction in alcohol intoxication rates among those taking them, compared to those who weren’t
A new study has suggested that weight loss and type 2 diabetes injections could potentially aid those struggling with alcohol addiction.
The research found that these commonly used drugs resulted in a 50% reduction in alcohol intoxication rates among those taking them, compared to those who weren’t. Published in the journal Addiction, the study also indicated that off-label use of these medications could assist individuals addicted to opioids.
The researchers focused on glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) drugs, including the brand name Mounjaro, and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RA), such as the drug Ozempic. Health professionals believe these drugs may help curb addictions due to their impact on appetite and certain brain areas associated with addictive behaviour. The study, led by experts from Loyola University Chicago in the US, analysed 503,747 people with a history of opioid use disorder, 8,103 of whom had a prescription for a GLP-1 RA or GIP.
The findings revealed that those with the disorder who had a GLP-1 RA or GIP prescription experienced a 40% lower rate of opioid overdose compared to those without a prescription. The study also examined 817,309 individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder, 5,621 of whom had a prescription for a GLP-1 RA or GIP, reports SurreyLive.
Research has uncovered that individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder and prescribed GLP-1 RA or GIP experienced a staggering 50% reduction in incidents of alcohol intoxication compared to those not on these medications. The authors of the study have suggested that these findings indicate these drugs “should be investigated as a novel pharmacotherapy treatment option” for those battling alcohol and opioid addiction.
