GLP-1 Medications Linked to Reduced Alcohol Consumption in Obesity

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Recent research sheds light on an unexpected benefit of GLP-1 receptor agonists—medications primarily used to manage diabetes.

These drugs may also play a role in reducing alcohol consumption, particularly among people grappling with obesity.

As scientists dig deeper, early findings present a promising dual purpose for these medications.

Insights from Recent Analysis

A thorough analysis involving more than 88,000 participants has revealed intriguing insights into how GLP-1 receptor agonists might influence drinking behaviors.

While the outcomes vary, there’s a notable trend suggesting these drugs could help certain groups, especially those with a body mass index (BMI) over 30.

Key Research Findings

A key study from the University of Nottingham, published in eClinicalMedicine, took a closer look at how GLP-1 receptor agonists can moderate alcohol use.

Led by Dr. Mohsen Subhani, a Clinical Assistant Professor of Gastroenterology at the NIHR Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, this investigation aimed to assess the intricate relationship between these medications and alcohol consumption.

With funding from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), the research team meticulously reviewed existing studies up to August 2024, exploring a range of outcomes related to drinking behavior, health consequences, medical visits, and the brain’s response to alcohol cues.

The review encompassed six studies, including two randomized controlled trials, with a combined total of over 88,000 participants.

About 43.9 percent of these people received GLP-1 receptor agonists.

The evidence points to a possible effect on the brain’s reward pathways that could be instrumental in reducing alcohol intake.

One of the standout studies found that exenatide didn’t significantly lower overall alcohol consumption after six months.

However, people with obesity showed encouraging signs.

In contrast, another analysis revealed that those given dulaglutide were 29 percent more likely to cut back on their drinking compared to those receiving a placebo.

Observational studies even hinted at a decline in alcohol-related health issues and reduced consumption among patients taking GLP-1 receptor agonists when compared to other treatments.

Looking Ahead

While the initial findings are compelling, ongoing research remains crucial.

With further studies, these diabetes medications could emerge as a valuable option for people struggling with excessive alcohol use, potentially reducing the toll of alcohol-related health problems.

This intersection of diabetes treatment and substance use highlights an intriguing facet of medications that might have broader benefits than originally intended.

For additional insights, you can explore the study titled “Association between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists use and change in alcohol consumption: a systematic review” by Mohsan Subhani et al., published on November 14, 2024, in eClinicalMedicine.

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Study Details:

• Title: Association between glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists use and change in alcohol consumption: a systematic review
• Authors: Mohsan Subhani, Ashwin Dhanda, James A. King, Fiona C. Warren, Siobhan Creanor, Melanie J. Davies, Sally Eldeghaidy, Stephen Bawden, Penny A. Gowland, Ramon Bataller, Justin Greenwood, Stephen Kaar, Neeraj Bhala, Guruprasad P. Aithal
• Journal: eClinicalMedicine
• Publication Date: 14 November 2024
• DOI: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2024.102920