Recent research from the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech indicates that GLP-1 agonists, commonly prescribed for diabetes and weight loss, might also aid in reducing alcohol consumption. A study published in Scientific Reports reveals that these medications, including Ozempic and Wegovy, may slow the rate at which alcohol enters the bloodstream, thereby mitigating its effects on the brain.
Lead researcher Alex DiFeliceantonio explained that different types of alcoholic drinks affect blood-alcohol levels at different rates. For instance, a shot of whiskey raises blood-alcohol concentration more quickly than a glass of wine, which can lead to a stronger feeling of intoxication. The research suggests that by slowing gastric emptying, GLP-1 medications could help individuals feel less intoxicated, even when consuming the same amount of alcohol as those not on these drugs.
The study involved twenty adults with a body mass index of 30 or higher, half of whom were on GLP-1 medication. Participants reported feeling less drunk after consuming alcohol, a finding that could have implications for addressing alcohol use disorders, which affect approximately one in ten U.S. adults. Chronic heavy drinking is associated with several health risks, including cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
While the study is preliminary, it lays the groundwork for more extensive research into the potential of GLP-1 medications as a therapeutic option for individuals seeking to reduce their alcohol intake. The researchers emphasize that this approach could offer a new avenue for treatment, leveraging existing medications that are already recognized as safe.