Study Reveals Anti-Obesity Drugs Reduce Alcohol Use by Altering Cravings and Reward Responses
- A recent study in JAMA Network Open explored how anti-obesity medications (AOMs) affect alcohol consumption in people participating in a telehealth weight management program.
- AOMs like glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are effective for weight loss.
- Participants in this study came from the WeightWatchers telehealth program.
Anti-Obesity Medications and Alcohol Use
A recent study in JAMA Network Open explored how anti-obesity medications (AOMs) affect alcohol consumption in people participating in a telehealth weight management program.
Effects of AOMs on Alcohol Use
AOMs like glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are effective for weight loss. Research indicates that these medications may also reduce the risk of developing alcohol use disorder. Investigating their impact on alcohol can lead to better understanding and treatment strategies for both weight management and addiction.
Study Overview
Participants in this study came from the WeightWatchers telehealth program. They began an AOM between January 2022 and August 2023, and data collection occurred from October to November 2023. The study was approved by the Henry Ford Health institutional review board.
AOMs studied included bupropion, metformin, naltrexone, and GLP-1 RAs like liraglutide and tirzepatide. Individuals with prior AOM use or bariatric surgery were excluded. Baseline surveys gathered information on demographics and alcohol consumption.
Study Findings
Most participants (86%) were prescribed second-generation GLP-1 RAs. By the start of the study, 53.3% consumed alcohol. Notably, 45.3% of these individuals cut back on alcohol after starting an AOM. Meanwhile, 52.4% reported no changes, and 2.3% increased their consumption.
Participants with higher obesity levels and more alcohol use at the start were more likely to reduce their drinking. Those on bupropion/naltrexone showed greater reductions than those on metformin, although this difference diminished after considering weight loss effects.
Conclusion
Nearly half of those who drank alcohol at the beginning reduced their consumption after starting AOMs. Possible reasons include naltrexone’s role in lowering alcohol cravings and GLP-1 RAs affecting the pleasure associated with drinking. Further research will help clarify these connections and enhance treatment options for obesity and alcohol-related issues.