Can GLP-1 medications help with addiction?
GLP-1s are widely known to curb a person鈥檚 appetite for food, but can they also help those who are struggling with addictions to other substances? Dr. Mandeep Bajaj, an endocrinologist at 黑料社区, explains the connection between the two.
鈥淕LP-1 is a peptide hormone that functions to augment the secretion of insulin in response to food and suppress the counter-regulatory hormone, glucagon. It also affects stomach motility so that you get a feeling of fullness,鈥 Bajaj said. 鈥淚n the human brain, GLP-1 receptor agonists give you the feeling of satiety and reduce appetite.鈥
He says that so far, some studies suggest that GLP-1 receptor agonists have a potential role in both preventing substance use disorders and treating them. A showed a 14% reduced risk of substance use disorders when taking GLP-1s in those without a history of substance use disorders.
鈥淭he same reward systems [the mesolimbic system] in the human brain that regulate food cravings when taking GLP-1receptor agonists can also regulate cravings for alcohol and other substances,鈥 Bajaj said.
Those taking GLP-1 receptor agonists for weight management or type 2 diabetes can get an additional benefit of reducing their cravings for alcohol and a reduction in smoking and tobacco use. Excessive use of alcohol could lead to complications like fatty liver disease, while smoking is associated with increased risk of limb amputations, cardiovascular disease and stroke.
鈥淭hese are certainly possible benefits of GLP-1-based therapy, though further research is needed. These medications hold great promise in the prevention and treatment of substance use disorders based on the data we have,鈥 Bajaj said.
