The potential benefits of GLP-1s for dealing with addiction
In 2023, 48.5 million people ages 12 or older in the U.S. contended with a substance use disorder or disorders -- for almost 29 million, it was an alcohol use disorder (AUD) and around 27 million abused drugs. Unfortunately, fewer than 10% of people who need treatment for AUD get it, and only 2% access Food and Drug Administration-approved medications. When it comes to treatment for drug abuse, the stats aren't any better.
I'm always looking for ways to help anyone working to overcome an addiction. (I'm treasurer of the OneOhio Recovery Foundation that helps Ohioans prevent, treat, and reverse addiction). So, here's another new tool that may help.
Diabetes and weight-loss GLP-1 medications, like low-dose semaglutide and tirzepatide, might be a useful addition to 12-step programs, counseling and taking medications such as antabuse and naltrexone for AUD and buprenorphine, methadone, and naltrexone for opioid use disorders.
A study in the Journal of the Endocrine Society explains that the pathways in the brain that lead to overeating and food addiction are shared by addiction to alcohol and drugs -- and as GLP-1s block activity in those brain areas to help people control diabetes and lose weight, they also seem to help reduce the impulsiveness and cravings that contribute to abuse of alcohol and drugs.
If you're contending with AUD or drug addiction and want to reclaim your health, talk to your doctor about taking semaglutide or tirzepatide (the better choice, IMHO) and other approved medications, reach out to a 12-step program and check out the resources at FindTreatment.gov.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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