A recent phase 2 clinical trial indicates that oral semaglutide could offer a new path for treating moderate to severe alcohol use disorder. While the study did not meet its primary goal regarding laboratory-based craving, participants using the drug reported significant reductions in heavy drinking days compared to those who received a placebo.
The findings, published in The American Journal of Psychiatry, highlight the potential for repurposing this medication, which is currently approved for diabetes and weight management. Researchers observed that 94% of the participants completed the eight-week trial, suggesting the treatment is well-tolerated with few reported side effects. Beyond alcohol consumption, exploratory data showed a reduction in cannabis use among a subgroup of participants.
Currently, there are only three FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder, and none have been introduced in the last two decades. Many patients do not respond well to existing options, creating a clear need for alternative therapies. Lead investigator Dr. Joseph Schacht notes that an oral formulation may improve patient accessibility compared to injectable alternatives.
Although the primary endpoint regarding cue-induced craving was not achieved, the secondary outcomes regarding naturalistic craving and overall alcohol-related consequences provide a strong signal for further research. The team emphasizes that while these early results are encouraging, larger phase 3 trials are necessary to determine optimal dosing and to confirm efficacy across broader populations. These efforts represent a significant step in addressing a long-standing gap in behavioral health medicine.