TENGOODRULES.ORG
Naltrexone is the most widely used Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medication to reduce alcohol drinking. Naltrexone works by blocking the effect of endorphins, the natural opioids normally released by drinking. Therefore, the pleasure that drinking gives will be less. Naltrexone is effective at reducing alcohol consumption and relapse, and seems to work particularly well with individuals who have a strong family history of alcoholism. I like to prescribe naltrexone because its effects are well known, and it is relatively safe. Naltrexone works best at 50 mg/day, although for the first dose or two, many patients start at 25 mg. Injectable depo naloxone is a long-acting form of naltrexone which can be very helpful for people who have trouble remembering to take pills. The effects of the injectable drug can last for more than a month. For someone who recognizes that they are drinking too much, taking naltrexone an hour before drinking has been shown to help. This method of using naltrexone is called the Sinclair Method, which has brought hope to thousands.
Annotated Bibliography: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists — With Links
Compiled for alcoholrecoverymedicine.com | References alphabetized by first author
Cai, M., Choi, T., Xie, Y., & Al-Aly, Z. (2026). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and risk of substance use disorders among US veterans with type 2 diabetes: cohort study. BMJ, 392, e086886. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2025-086886 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12958796/
This large study of over 600,000 U.S. veterans found that those who took GLP-1 medications had a lower risk of developing alcohol, opioid, nicotine, and other substance use disorders. Among veterans who already had a substance use disorder, the drugs were linked to fewer overdoses, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Farokhnia, M., Tazare, J., Pince, C. L., Bruns, N. VI, Gray, J. C., Lo Re, V. III, Fiellin, D. A., Kranzler, H. R., Koob, G. F., Justice, A. C., Vendruscolo, L. F., Rentsch, C. T., & Leggio, L. (2025). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, but not dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, reduce alcohol intake. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 135(9), e188314. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI188314 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12043080/
NIH researchers compared two types of diabetes drugs - GLP-1 receptor and DPP-4 inhibitors - to see which reduced alcohol use. Only the GLP-1 drugs were linked to lower alcohol intake in both human patients and animal studies.
Ferrara, A. (2026). GLP-1 drugs and the emerging mass tort crisis: navigating legal risks and regulatory gaps. UMKC Law Review, 94(3), 731–754. https://law.umkc.edu/law-review/
This law review article examines the growing wave of lawsuits tied to GLP-1 drugs, particularly claims involving serious stomach problems such as gastroparesis. The author argues that current FDA oversight has not kept pace with the need for consumer protection.
Haass-Koffler, C. L. (2026). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in alcohol use disorder: multi-system effects, early clinical promise and uncertain long-term use. Addiction. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.70098 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40358093/
This review describes how GLP-1 drugs affect multiple body systems and why they may help people drink less. The author notes that while early results are encouraging, important questions remain about long-term safety. The author calls for more rigorous research before widespread use in alcohol treatment.
Hathaway, J. T., Shah, M. P., Hathaway, D. B., Zekavat, S. M., Krasniqi, D., Gittinger, J. W. Jr., Cestari, D., Mallery, R., Abbasi, B., Bouffard, M., Chwalisz, B. K., Estrela, T., & Rizzo, J. F. III. (2024). Risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in patients prescribed semaglutide. JAMA Ophthalmology, 142(8), 732–739. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.2296 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11223051/
This study raises concern that semaglutide might be linked to a serious eye condition called nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, which can cause sudden vision loss. The authors recommend monitoring and further study.
Hendershot, C. S., Bremmer, M. P., Paladino, M. B., Kostantinis, G., Gilmore, T. A., Sullivan, N. R., Tow, A. C., Dermody, S. S., Prince, M. A., Jordan, R., McKee, S. A., Fletcher, P. J., Claus, E. D., & Klein, K. R. (2025). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with alcohol use disorder: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 82(4), 395–405. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.4789 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11822619/
This was the first randomized, placebo-controlled trial testing semaglutide in people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Adults with AUD who received weekly semaglutide injections drank less alcohol, had fewer cravings, and consumed less alcohol in a lab setting compared to those on placebo.
Kerlikowsky, F., Pammer, V., Schuchardt, J. P., & Hahn, A. (2025). GLP-1 receptor agonists—good for body weight, bad for micronutrient status? Current Developments in Nutrition, 107587. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2025.107587 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39958694/
GLP-1 drugs dramatically reduce appetite and food intake, which raises a concern: people may not get enough vitamins and minerals. This review found that patients on GLP-1 medications are at risk for deficiencies in nutrients like B12, iron, and zinc, creating a need for routine nutritional monitoring and possible supplementation.
Klausen, M. K., Knudsen, G. M., Vilsbøll, T., & Fink-Jensen, A. (2025). Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists in alcohol use disorder. Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, 136(3), e70004. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcpt.70004 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11849089/
This scientific review summarizes what is known about how GLP-1 receptor agonists work in the brain and gut, and how those effects may reduce alcohol craving and consumption. The authors review both animal studies and early human trials.
Klausen, M. K., Justesen, S. K., Pedersen, J. N., et al. (2026). Once-weekly semaglutide versus placebo in patients with alcohol use disorder and comorbid obesity: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet, 407, 1687–1698. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(26)00305-3 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(26)00305-3/fulltext
This Lancet trial tested once-weekly semaglutide against placebo in patients with both AUD and obesity. Over 26 weeks, the semaglutide group significantly reduced their heavy drinking days and total alcohol intake compared to the placebo group.
Long, B., Gottlieb, M., & Koyfman, A. (2024). GLP-1 agonists: a review for emergency clinicians. American Journal of Emergency Medicine, 78, 89–94. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2024.01.052 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38367399/
Written for emergency room doctors, this review explains what GLP-1 drugs are, how they work, and describes side effects seen in acute medical settings, such as nausea, vomiting, low blood sugar, and pancreatitis.
Meilinger, A., et al. (2026). The role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in prompting a meaningful improvement in alcohol use disorder. Journal of Primary Care & Community Health, 17, 21501319261437615. https://doi.org/10.1177/21501319261437615 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40285437/
This article reviews the emerging evidence that GLP-1 drugs may help treat alcohol use disorder and considers how they might be incorporated into everyday clinical practice. The authors discuss practical considerations like cost, patient selection, and the need for monitoring.
Montecinos, K., Kania, B., & Goldberg, D. J. (2024). Semaglutide "Ozempic" face and implications in cosmetic dermatology. Dermatological Reviews, 5, e70003. https://doi.org/10.1002/der2.70003 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/der2.70003
Rapid weight loss from semaglutide can cause the face to appear gaunt or hollow, a phenomenon dubbed "Ozempic face." This article highlights an underappreciated side effect of dramatic weight loss and describes the skin and facial changes associated with GLP-1 weight loss.
Qeadan, F., McCunn, A., & Tingey, B. (2025). The association between glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and/or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist prescriptions and substance-related outcomes in patients with opioid and alcohol use disorders: a real-world data analysis. Addiction, 120(2), 236–250. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.16679 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11707322/
Using electronic health records from millions of patients, this study found that those with alcohol use disorder who were prescribed GLP-1 drugs had about 40–50% fewer emergency visits for alcohol intoxication. The dataset's reliability has been questioned, but the size of the study and the direction of the findings are notable.
Rehman, A., & Nashwan, A. J. (2024). The rising threat of counterfeit GLP-1 receptor agonists: implications for public health. Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health, 3, 100136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.glmedi.2024.100136 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11384873/
As demand for GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic has skyrocketed, counterfeit versions have appeared in the marketplace. This article documents the dangers posed by fake or improperly compounded versions of these medications, which may contain incorrect doses or harmful ingredients.
Richards, J. R., & Khalsa, S. S. (2024). Highway to the danger zone? A cautionary account that GLP-1 receptor agonists may be too effective for unmonitored weight loss. Obesity Reviews, 25(5), e13709. https://doi.org/10.1111/obr.13709 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11144546/
This commentary raises a safety concern: GLP-1 drugs may cause weight loss so rapidly and dramatically that patients lose dangerous amounts of muscle and bone mass along with fat. The authors warn that without proper medical supervision, nutritional support, and exercise guidance, extreme weight loss from these drugs could cause serious harm.
Rosen, C. J., & Ingelfinger, J. R. (2026). GLP-1 receptor agonists. New England Journal of Medicine, 394(13), 1313–1324. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra2404105 https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMra2404105
This comprehensive review covers the science, benefits, and risks of GLP-1 receptor agonists. It explains how these drugs work, their proven benefits for diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, as well as known side effects and unresolved questions.
Sinha, B., & Ghosal, S. (2025). The effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) on alcohol-related outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, 20, 44. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13722-025-00569-7 https://ascpjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13722-025-00569-7
This systematic review pooled results from multiple studies examining whether GLP-1 drugs reduce alcohol use. Although the analysis found consistent evidence of reduced alcohol consumption and craving across different types of studies, the studies were small and short, and the authors advise that more rigorous studies are needed before these drugs can be routinely recommended for AUD.
Sodhi, M., Rezaeianzadeh, R., Kezouh, A., & Etminan, M. (2023). Risk of gastrointestinal adverse events associated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for weight loss. JAMA, 330(18), 1795–1797. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.19574 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10557026/
This study found that GLP-1 drug use for weight loss (not diabetes) had higher rates of pancreatitis, stomach paralysis, and bowel obstruction compared to those taking a different weight-loss drug.
Srinivasan, N. M., et al. (2025). GLP-1 therapeutics and their emerging role in alcohol and substance use disorders: an endocrinology primer. Journal of the Endocrine Society, 9(11), bvaf141. https://doi.org/10.1210/jendso/bvaf141 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12509273/
This report reviews the biology behind GLP-1 drugs and explains how these medications may help reduce alcohol and substance use through their effects on the brain's reward and appetite pathways.
Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Davies, M., et al. (2022). Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: the STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 24(8), 1553–1564. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14725 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35441470/
This follow-up study examined what happened to patients after they stopped taking semaglutide. Within about a year, most of the weight lost came back, and improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol were reversed, suggesting that lifetime use may be necessary to prevent rapid relapse.
Zheng, Y. J., et al. (2025). A systematic review on the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on alcohol-related behaviors: potential therapeutic strategy for alcohol use disorder. Acta Neuropsychiatrica, 37, e51. https://doi.org/10.1017/neu.2025.18 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40231455/
This systematic review examines animal and human studies on how GLP-1 drugs affect alcohol-seeking behaviors. The authors find consistent evidence that GLP-1 receptor activation reduces alcohol consumption across species, and they propose possible brain mechanisms.
XXXX
Annotated Bibliography: GLP-1 Receptor Agonists — With Links
Compiled for alcoholrecoverymedicine.com | References alphabetized by first author
Cai, M., Choi, T., Xie, Y., & Al-Aly, Z. (2026). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists and risk of substance use disorders among US veterans with type 2 diabetes: cohort study. BMJ, 392, e086886. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2025-086886 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12958796/
This large study of over 600,000 U.S. veterans found that those who took GLP-1 medications had a lower risk of developing alcohol, opioid, nicotine, and other substance use disorders. Among veterans who already had a substance use disorder, the drugs were linked to fewer overdoses, hospitalizations, and deaths.
Farokhnia, M., Tazare, J., Pince, C. L., Bruns, N. VI, Gray, J. C., Lo Re, V. III, Fiellin, D. A., Kranzler, H. R., Koob, G. F., Justice, A. C., Vendruscolo, L. F., Rentsch, C. T., & Leggio, L. (2025). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists, but not dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, reduce alcohol intake. Journal of Clinical Investigation, 135(9), e188314. https://doi.org/10.1172/JCI188314 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12043080/
NIH researchers compared two types of diabetes drugs - GLP-1 receptor and DPP-4 inhibitors - to see which reduced alcohol use. Only the GLP-1 drugs were linked to lower alcohol intake in both human patients and animal studies.
Ferrara, A. (2026). GLP-1 drugs and the emerging mass tort crisis: navigating legal risks and regulatory gaps. UMKC Law Review, 94(3), 731–754. https://law.umkc.edu/law-review/
This law review article examines the growing wave of lawsuits tied to GLP-1 drugs, particularly claims involving serious stomach problems such as gastroparesis. The author argues that current FDA oversight has not kept pace with the need for consumer protection.
Haass-Koffler, C. L. (2026). Glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in alcohol use disorder: multi-system effects, early clinical promise and uncertain long-term use. Addiction. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.70098 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40358093/
This review describes how GLP-1 drugs affect multiple body systems and why they may help people drink less. The author notes that while early results are encouraging, important questions remain about long-term safety. The author calls for more rigorous research before widespread use in alcohol treatment.
Hathaway, J. T., Shah, M. P., Hathaway, D. B., Zekavat, S. M., Krasniqi, D., Gittinger, J. W. Jr., Cestari, D., Mallery, R., Abbasi, B., Bouffard, M., Chwalisz, B. K., Estrela, T., & Rizzo, J. F. III. (2024). Risk of nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy in patients prescribed semaglutide. JAMA Ophthalmology, 142(8), 732–739. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamaophthalmol.2024.2296 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11223051/
This study raises concern that semaglutide might be linked to a serious eye condition called nonarteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy, which can cause sudden vision loss. The authors recommend monitoring and further study.
Hendershot, C. S., Bremmer, M. P., Paladino, M. B., Kostantinis, G., Gilmore, T. A., Sullivan, N. R., Tow, A. C., Dermody, S. S., Prince, M. A., Jordan, R., McKee, S. A., Fletcher, P. J., Claus, E. D., & Klein, K. R. (2025). Once-weekly semaglutide in adults with alcohol use disorder: a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Psychiatry, 82(4), 395–405. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2024.4789 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11822619/
This was the first randomized, placebo-controlled trial testing semaglutide in people with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Adults with AUD who received weekly semaglutide injections drank less alcohol, had fewer cravings, and consumed less alcohol in a lab setting compared to those on placebo.
Kerlikowsky, F., Pammer, V., Schuchardt, J. P., & Hahn, A. (2025). GLP-1 receptor agonists—good for body weight, bad for micronutrient status? Current Developments in Nutrition, 107587. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cdnut.2025.107587 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39958694/
GLP-1 drugs dramatically reduce appetite and food intake, which raises a concern: people may not get enough vitamins and minerals. This review found that patients on GLP-1 medications are at risk for deficiencies in nutrients like B12, iron, and zinc, creating a need for routine nutritional monitoring and possible supplementation.
Klausen, M. K., Knudsen, G. M., Vilsbøll, T., & Fink-Jensen, A. (2025). Effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists in alcohol use disorder. Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology, 136(3), e70004. https://doi.org/10.1111/bcpt.70004 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11849089/
This scientific review summarizes what is known about how GLP-1 receptor agonists work in the brain and gut, and how those effects may reduce alcohol craving and consumption. The authors review both animal studies and early human trials.
Klausen, M. K., Justesen, S. K., Pedersen, J. N., et al. (2026). Once-weekly semaglutide versus placebo in patients with alcohol use disorder and comorbid obesity: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. The Lancet, 407, 1687–1698. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(26)00305-3 https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(26)00305-3/fulltext
This Lancet trial tested once-weekly semaglutide against placebo in patients with both AUD and obesity. Over 26 weeks, the semaglutide group significantly reduced their heavy drinking days and total alcohol intake compared to the placebo group.
Long, B., Gottlieb, M., & Koyfman, A. (2024). GLP-1 agonists: a review for emergency clinicians. American Journal of Emergency Medicine, 78, 89–94. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajem.2024.01.052 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38367399/
Written for emergency room doctors, this review explains what GLP-1 drugs are, how they work, and describes side effects seen in acute medical settings, such as nausea, vomiting, low blood sugar, and pancreatitis.
Meilinger, A., et al. (2026). The role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists in prompting a meaningful improvement in alcohol use disorder. Journal of Primary Care & Community Health, 17, 21501319261437615. https://doi.org/10.1177/21501319261437615 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40285437/
This article reviews the emerging evidence that GLP-1 drugs may help treat alcohol use disorder and considers how they might be incorporated into everyday clinical practice. The authors discuss practical considerations like cost, patient selection, and the need for monitoring.
Montecinos, K., Kania, B., & Goldberg, D. J. (2024). Semaglutide "Ozempic" face and implications in cosmetic dermatology. Dermatological Reviews, 5, e70003. https://doi.org/10.1002/der2.70003 https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/der2.70003
Rapid weight loss from semaglutide can cause the face to appear gaunt or hollow, a phenomenon dubbed "Ozempic face." This article highlights an underappreciated side effect of dramatic weight loss and describes the skin and facial changes associated with GLP-1 weight loss.
Qeadan, F., McCunn, A., & Tingey, B. (2025). The association between glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and/or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonist prescriptions and substance-related outcomes in patients with opioid and alcohol use disorders: a real-world data analysis. Addiction, 120(2), 236–250. https://doi.org/10.1111/add.16679 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11707322/
Using electronic health records from millions of patients, this study found that those with alcohol use disorder who were prescribed GLP-1 drugs had about 40–50% fewer emergency visits for alcohol intoxication. The dataset's reliability has been questioned, but the size of the study and the direction of the findings are notable.
Rehman, A., & Nashwan, A. J. (2024). The rising threat of counterfeit GLP-1 receptor agonists: implications for public health. Journal of Medicine, Surgery, and Public Health, 3, 100136. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.glmedi.2024.100136 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11384873/
As demand for GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic has skyrocketed, counterfeit versions have appeared in the marketplace. This article documents the dangers posed by fake or improperly compounded versions of these medications, which may contain incorrect doses or harmful ingredients.
Richards, J. R., & Khalsa, S. S. (2024). Highway to the danger zone? A cautionary account that GLP-1 receptor agonists may be too effective for unmonitored weight loss. Obesity Reviews, 25(5), e13709. https://doi.org/10.1111/obr.13709 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11144546/
This commentary raises a safety concern: GLP-1 drugs may cause weight loss so rapidly and dramatically that patients lose dangerous amounts of muscle and bone mass along with fat. The authors warn that without proper medical supervision, nutritional support, and exercise guidance, extreme weight loss from these drugs could cause serious harm.
Rosen, C. J., & Ingelfinger, J. R. (2026). GLP-1 receptor agonists. New England Journal of Medicine, 394(13), 1313–1324. https://doi.org/10.1056/NEJMra2404105 https://www.nejm.org/doi/10.1056/NEJMra2404105
This comprehensive review covers the science, benefits, and risks of GLP-1 receptor agonists. It explains how these drugs work, their proven benefits for diabetes, obesity, and heart disease, as well as known side effects and unresolved questions.
Sinha, B., & Ghosal, S. (2025). The effects of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1-RAs) on alcohol-related outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Addiction Science & Clinical Practice, 20, 44. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13722-025-00569-7 https://ascpjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13722-025-00569-7
This systematic review pooled results from multiple studies examining whether GLP-1 drugs reduce alcohol use. Although the analysis found consistent evidence of reduced alcohol consumption and craving across different types of studies, the studies were small and short, and the authors advise that more rigorous studies are needed before these drugs can be routinely recommended for AUD.
Sodhi, M., Rezaeianzadeh, R., Kezouh, A., & Etminan, M. (2023). Risk of gastrointestinal adverse events associated with glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists for weight loss. JAMA, 330(18), 1795–1797. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2023.19574 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10557026/
This study found that GLP-1 drug use for weight loss (not diabetes) had higher rates of pancreatitis, stomach paralysis, and bowel obstruction compared to those taking a different weight-loss drug.
Srinivasan, N. M., et al. (2025). GLP-1 therapeutics and their emerging role in alcohol and substance use disorders: an endocrinology primer. Journal of the Endocrine Society, 9(11), bvaf141. https://doi.org/10.1210/jendso/bvaf141 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12509273/
This report reviews the biology behind GLP-1 drugs and explains how these medications may help reduce alcohol and substance use through their effects on the brain's reward and appetite pathways.
Wilding, J. P. H., Batterham, R. L., Davies, M., et al. (2022). Weight regain and cardiometabolic effects after withdrawal of semaglutide: the STEP 1 trial extension. Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, 24(8), 1553–1564. https://doi.org/10.1111/dom.14725 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35441470/
This follow-up study examined what happened to patients after they stopped taking semaglutide. Within about a year, most of the weight lost came back, and improvements in blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol were reversed, suggesting that lifetime use may be necessary to prevent rapid relapse.
Zheng, Y. J., et al. (2025). A systematic review on the role of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists on alcohol-related behaviors: potential therapeutic strategy for alcohol use disorder. Acta Neuropsychiatrica, 37, e51. https://doi.org/10.1017/neu.2025.18 https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40231455/
This systematic review examines animal and human studies on how GLP-1 drugs affect alcohol-seeking behaviors. The authors find consistent evidence that GLP-1 receptor activation reduces alcohol consumption across species, and they propose possible brain mechanisms.