A government-funded study suggests that medications designed for obesity treatment may help reduce cravings beyond food. The research, published in JAMA Psychiatry and supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, examined semaglutide, a drug that mimics gut and brain hormones to regulate appetite. Conducted over two months, the study involved 48 adults and investigated whether GLP-1 receptor agonists, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, could influence compulsive behaviors. A researcher from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill stated that many individuals using these medications reported a noticeable decrease in cravings, including those related to smoking and excessive substance consumption.

Participants with compulsive consumption tendencies were assessed in a controlled setting. They were then randomly assigned to receive either a weekly semaglutide injection or a placebo. After nine weeks of observation, results indicated that nearly 40% of those receiving semaglutide experienced a substantial reduction in compulsive behaviors, compared to 20% in the placebo group. Experts emphasize the necessity of larger trials to confirm long-term safety and effectiveness.