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Ga. (Atlanta News First) — The Atlanta VA Medical Center is one of 18 VA clinical sites across the United States chosen for a major study examining whether the popular weight-loss drug semaglutide can treat alcohol use disorder (AUD) in veterans
The 24-week clinical trial will track more than 600 veterans nationwide to observe if the medication reduces alcohol cravings and consumption
Semaglutide belongs to a class of medications known as GLP-1 receptor agonists, which mimic a naturally occurring hormone released in the gut after eating
While widely advertised for weight loss and blood sugar management, medical professionals say GLP-1 medications also target the brain’s reward centers, which may play a critical role in curbing addictive behaviors
“We’re very excited to see this from a mental health perspective, because alcohol use disorder is a significant problem not just nationwide but among veterans,” said Dr. Bekh Bradley, chief of mental health services at the Atlanta VA
The Department of Veterans Affairs reports that more than 400,000 veterans nationwide suffer from alcohol use disorder
Bradley notes that veterans are uniquely vulnerable to AUD, often turning to alcohol to self-medicate for trauma exposure, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
During the double-blind trial, participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a weekly active dose of semaglutide (up to 2.4 mg) or a placebo. Researchers will conduct regular interviews over the course of nearly six months to measure changes in drinking habits
If successful, the study could pave the way for semaglutide to receive FDA approval as a designated treatment option for alcohol use disorder
Doctors advise that patients should discuss potential risks with a healthcare provider before starting semaglutide. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting, while rare but serious complications such as pancreatitis can also occur
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