A government-funded study suggests that medications originally designed for obesity treatment may also reduce cravings beyond food. The two-month study involved 48 adults and adds to growing evidence that GLP-1 receptor agonists like Ozempic and Wegovy could help control compulsive behaviors. Published in JAMA Psychiatry and supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, the research examined semaglutide, a drug that imitates gut and brain hormones to regulate appetite and satiety. This function has led to further investigation into its potential effects on dependency-related behaviors, such as smoking and excessive consumption of substances. A researcher from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill noted that many patients using these medications reported a noticeable reduction in cravings.

Participants with compulsive consumption tendencies were initially observed in a controlled setting. They were then randomly assigned to receive either a weekly semaglutide injection or a placebo. Over nine weeks, their behaviors and cravings were monitored, ending with a final test. Results showed that nearly 40% of semaglutide users experienced a significant reduction in compulsive behaviors, compared to 20% in the placebo group. While these findings are promising, experts emphasize the need for larger trials to assess the long-term safety and effectiveness of this treatment.