Addiction
Weight-loss drugs show early promise for alcohol and other addictions, review finds
Heather Vogel Image generated by AI Fact checked
Medications such as semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic/Wegovy) could aid treatment of alcohol and other substance use disorders, according to a peer‑reviewed review in the Journal of the Endocrine Society. Early animal and human data suggest these GLP‑1 receptor agonists act on brain reward circuits; lead author Lorenzo Leggio urged caution, saying, “Early research in both animals and humans suggests that these treatments may help reduce alcohol and other substance use.”
Study finds GLP-1 drugs may slow alcohol effects
Researchers at Virginia Tech's Fralin Biomedical Research Institute have published a study suggesting that GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, could help reduce alcohol consumption by slowing its absorption into the bloodstream. Participants on these drugs reported feeling less intoxicated after drinking the same amount of alcohol as those not taking them. The findings, from a pilot study involving 20 adults, point to a potential new approach distinct from traditional treatments.
Addiction counselor warns about crypto gambling risks
An addiction counselor in Missoula, Montana, is highlighting the dangers of cryptocurrency-based online casinos. These platforms pose significant risks to brain health, according to the expert.
Scientists discover brain circuit driving alcohol addiction relapse
Reported by AI
Researchers at Scripps Research have identified a brain region that becomes hyperactive in rats, linking alcohol to relief from withdrawal stress and promoting relapse. The paraventricular nucleus of the thalamus plays a key role in this negative reinforcement learning. The findings, published on August 5, 2025, could inform treatments for addiction and related disorders.