The talk of the town revolves around the latest wave of anti-obesity medications, which are gaining popularity not only for their remarkable weight loss results but also for their unexpected additional benefits. One prominent drug, semaglutide, originally introduced as Ozempic for diabetes and later as Wegovy for obesity, is causing a stir due to its potential to produce a significant body weight reduction of 15% to 20%.

Beyond mere weight loss, however, these medications, including others in the same category that mimic the natural hormone GLP-1, appear to possess an intriguing ability: curbing cravings for more than just food. People who use GLP-1 drugs have reported a decreased inclination toward addictive and compulsive behaviors, such as alcohol consumption, smoking, excessive shopping, gambling, and even nail biting.

Dr. Caroline Apovian, co-director of the Center for Weight Management and Wellness at Harvard-affiliated Brigham and Women’s Hospital, has heard similar anecdotes from her patients, particularly about reducing cravings for alcohol and sweets. The mechanism behind this phenomenon is not entirely clear, but it seems that GLP-1 drugs, in addition to suppressing appetite, can influence reward pathways in the brain, normally activated by substances such as food, alcohol and nicotine. , as well as pleasurable activities such as gambling or shopping.

The possible advantages of GLP-1 drugs go beyond weight lossand Wegovy shows promise in reducing the risk of serious heart problems by 20%, according to a report from the drug’s maker from August 2023. This groundbreaking trial involving 18,000 people could mark the first case in which GLP-1 medications provide cardiovascular benefits to overweight people. individuals without diabetes.

Research is delving into the impact of drugs on alcohol abuse and smoking. A study published in September 2022 suggested that a GLP-1 drug called exenatide significantly reduced alcohol consumption in people with obesity and alcohol use disorder. Another ongoing trial is exploring whether increasing doses of semaglutide can reduce alcohol consumption and smoking in people with alcohol use disorder who also smoke.

While these preliminary findings are promising, more research and large-scale clinical trials are needed for FDA approval beyond diabetes and obesity, which may take several more years. Dr. Apovian anticipates an increase in demand for these medications as more benefits come to light, emphasizing the need to remove the stigma surrounding addictions and compulsions, viewing them as brain disorders rather than moral failings.

Dr. Apovian suggests considering the following for those interested in using GLP-1 medications to treat addiction or compulsive behavior:

1. Chase it: If you are dealing with obesity and other compulsions, exploring GLP-1 medications could offer a potential solution. These medications may provide benefits beyond weight loss.

2. Be on the lookout for cheaper options: While newer GLP-1 medications, such as Wegs may be expensive and scarce, first-generation alternatives such as dulaglutide (Trulicity) and liraglutide (Saxenda), approved for diabetes or obesity, may be available as generics, making them more accessible and affordable.

In conclusion, the success of GLP-1 drugs in addressing a variety of cravings could challenge the perception of addictions and compulsions as willpower problems, emphasizing their roots in brain disorders. Dr. Apovian encourages exploring these medications for their potential multifaceted benefits while being patient and considering more affordable alternatives in the changing landscape of obesity treatments.