TDNet Discover

Objective: The purpose of this research is to evaluate the therapeutic potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) in suppressing alcohol consumption in individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Background: Alcohol use disorder is a chronic condition that affects millions of individuals worldwide, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, or gender. Combining cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) with pharmacotherapy is regarded as the gold standard for treating AUD. However, CBT remains underutilized in clinical practice. In addition, current pharmacological treatments, such as disulfiram, acamprosate, and naltrexone, often yield suboptimal outcomes in alcohol deterrence. GLP-1 RAs target reward-related areas in the brain and contribute to appetite regulation. Their mechanism of action (MOA) may reduce alcohol cravings, offering a potential treatment option for individuals with AUD. Methods: This systematic review examined five articles, published in PubMed between 2022- 2025, that studied the efficacy of GLP-1RAs in the treatment of AUD. Results: Results indicate a decrease in alcohol craving, consumption, hospitalization, and both the incidence and recurrence of AUD, in patients treated with GLP-1RAs such as semaglutide, tirzepatide, exenatide, dulaglutide, and liraglutide. However, further research is needed to better quantify their efficacy for AUD treatment. Conclusion: GLP-1RAs reduce alcohol cravings and consumption in individuals with AUD, establishing efficacy as a new therapeutic approach.