A recent study conducted by Loyola University Chicago has shown early links to the common weight loss drug Ozempic (as well as similar GLP-1 treatments) to also reduce addictive urges in other areas of life. Specifically, these treatments have  linked Ozempic with the possible reduction of substance abuse disorder (SUD) cravings.

Although it is important to note that we are still very early in the ongoing research and development process, these findings represent an incredibly exciting and highly encouraging future of treatment options for millions of individuals suffering from SUD.

In today’s article, we will be taking a look at this recent, potentially groundbreaking study and discussing some of its real world applications and where it may lead in the future as researchers continue to explore the subject.

How Ozempic Works

To begin a discussion about the potential linkage between GLP-1 medications and the reduction of the urges commonly associated with substance abuse disorder, it is crucial to first have at least a basic understanding of the drugs, what they are made out of, and how they function to help people effectively lose weight.

Ozempic, much like other similar GLP-1 drugs such as Wegovy, is administered once per week and works to regulate blood sugar levels, reduce appetite, and significantly slow the emptying of the stomach. In turn, these all combine to help patients lose weight much faster than they normally would, on average.

Understanding This Revolutionary Study

This study conducted by Loyola University Chicago represents the first step in a long journey toward the creation of GLP-1 medications that can help curb the addictions and cravings so common during alcohol and drug addiction treatment.

Further, a survey conducted by Morgan Stanley (MS) found that individuals using Ozempic or a similar GLP-1 weight loss drug for a year or more reported that they had reduced their usage of tobacco in the previous year. While this survey was relatively small, only around 300 participants, and was not through the same rigor of a more robust clinical trial, it does make for yet another interesting data point.

Different Stimuli, Same Outcome

While on a surface level, the notions of obesity and substance use disorder could not be any less related. But upon closer analysis, one can begin to see that they both have many similarities. Some of the main similarities between the two include low self esteem and underlying mental health issues, but there are many others.

The study found that the overlap in the mesolimbic system and the brain processes that influence addiction suggests that these medication use cases may be extended to also “modulate the reward-response pathways associated with substance use."

This suggests that targeting the underlying behavior and thought processes on the level of brain chemistry can help reduce cravings and urges in a way that other treatments alone either can’t or struggle to.

Moderation of Addictive Behavior

The goal of development with this emerging GLP-1 research and any potential medications that stem from it is not likely to be a pill that “cures” addictions or makes them go away overnight, but rather a medication that can be used as a part of a wider treatment plan that helps individuals mitigate their urges and moderate their behavior.

If this is successfully achieved, it could be one of the single most important innovations in the history of treatment for alcohol and drug addiction and could revolutionize the way that we create and implement treatment plans for years to come.

“I’m always skeptical of anything labeled as a ‘magic cure’,” said Never Alone Recovery founder and CEO Austin Wynn, “but the underlying science, the idea that if we can use these GLP-1 medications to reduce cravings, that could become invaluable for millions of people struggling to beat their substance use disorder.” 

Looking Ahead to the Future

While it would be disingenuous or even outright false to claim that Ozempic is a “cure” for substance use disorder in any way, shape, or form in its current state, this initial study is incredibly encouraging.

“I’m always skeptical of anything labeled as a ‘magic cure’,” said Never Alone Recovery founder and CEO Austin Wynn, “but the underlying science, the idea that if we can use these GLP-1 medications to reduce cravings, that could become invaluable for millions of people struggling to beat their substance use disorder.” 

This skepticism is healthy and should be encouraged. Medical issues such as weight loss and substance use disorder represent multi-billion dollar industries, which provides a clear and obvious motive for bad actors to try and exploit people’s needs to make as much money as they can.

Never Alone Recovery Is Here to Help

If you or a loved one is struggling with substance use disorder or needs assistance in building a strong sober support network, please do not hesitate to give us a call today at 844-365-4445 for a free consultation to see how we can help you begin your journey toward long-term sober living, regardless of background.

Never Alone Recovery is an Indiana rehab facilitator with a team of dedicated, full-time addiction recovery consultants on staff who work around the clock to provide free drug rehab placement services and find insurance approved rehab options for those in need. 

The mission of the Never Alone program is to offer support and unyielding compassion to those suffering from mental health issues and substance use disorder, as well as their loved ones, regardless of income or financial means. 

In addition to this article, we have an extensive library of online resources and a 100% free online support group that meets weekly. No matter where you are in your recovery journey, remember that you’re never alone.