Scientific studies have shown that weight loss medications, such as Ozempic, can cause various beneficial side effects for the human body during their use. For example, these medications have been found to decrease the risk of seizures or addiction to substances like cannabis, opioids, and alcohol. Ozempic is a GLP-1 receptor agonist, which acts on the reward regulation system and dopamine.
In a recent study led by Christian Hendershot, director of clinical research at the University of Southern California's Institute for Addiction Sciences, it was demonstrated that semaglutide, the active component of medications like Ozempic and Wegovy, could help reduce alcohol cravings. In a clinical trial conducted with 48 adults with alcohol use disorder, participants were divided into two groups: one received low doses of semaglutide and the other a placebo. After nine weeks, those who took semaglutide not only maintained their frequency of use, but also reduced the amount of alcohol consumed on drinking days by almost 30 percent, compared to the placebo group.
A study published in the journal Diabetes, Obesity & Metabolism in 2022 indicated that some patients treated with Ozempic reported a decreased appetite for consuming alcohol. Additionally, research has suggested that GLP-1 drugs may be more effective in curbing appetite and the desire to consume addictive substances.
Preclinical studies have shown that GLP-1 medications may also have positive effects in reducing the risk of developing neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia, as well as decreasing the likelihood of suffering from other diseases or disorders like suicidal thoughts, bulimia, cardiovascular diseases, among others.
However, it is important to note that uncontrolled consumption of these medications can cause negative side effects, such as gastrointestinal problems (nausea, vomiting, constipation, gastroesophageal reflux disease) and damage to organs like the pancreas or kidneys. Therefore, it is recommended to take these medications under medical supervision and accompanied by a diet and exercise to minimize side effects.
