Semaglutide therapy investigated for reducing alcohol drinking in alcohol use disorder

Globally, alcohol use disorder (AUD) contributes to 5% of annual deaths, highlighting an urgent need for novel therapeutic interventions. Current treatments often have limited efficacy or significant side effects, leaving many individuals without adequate support. Preclinical and initial human studies suggest that the GLP-1 receptor agonist semaglutide may modulate reward pathways and reduce alcohol intake. This research aims to formally evaluate semaglutide's efficacy and safety in this population, addressing a critical gap in AUD treatment options.

This research study is designed as a randomized, placebo-controlled trial to determine the safety and efficacy of semaglutide in reducing alcohol consumption. Participants are individuals who endorse symptoms consistent with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The primary endpoint is the difference in the number of standard alcohol-containing drinks consumed per week (Drinks Per Week, DPW) from baseline to the end of the study, comparing the semaglutide arm to the placebo arm. Safety and tolerability will be assessed by monitoring the frequency of adverse events.