A new study conducted by a US research team has found that drugs known for promoting weight loss are also effective in reducing alcohol consumption. These drugs, including Semaglutide and Tirzepatide, have been shown to not only aid in losing significant amounts of weight but also reduce the desire to drink alcohol. This is seen as extremely positive news, as alcohol abuse is considered a major threat to public health and is associated with high mortality for multiple diseases.
The study, led by scientists from the Fralin Biomedical Research Institute at Virginia Tech, involved two separate investigations. In the first study, researchers analyzed tens of thousands of posts in various online forums related to alcohol consumption and the use of anti-obesity drugs. The findings showed that over 70% of users noted a reduction in alcohol consumption, appetite, and negative consequences associated with drinking, such as hangovers and headaches, after taking these drugs.
In the second study, 153 subjects with obesity who were current alcohol drinkers and had taken Semaglutide and Tirzepatide for at least one month were compared with a control group. The analysis revealed a significantly lower number of binge drinking episodes, self-reported alcohol consumption, and related disorders in the group taking the drugs.
These findings have added to the growing evidence that drugs like Semaglutide and Tirzepatide could effectively curb dangerous drinking habits. The researchers have emphasized that additional in-depth studies with larger sample sizes will be necessary to confirm these findings. Despite the limitations of self-reported results, the potential of these drugs to reduce alcohol consumption could have a significant impact on public health.
It is worth noting that these drugs have also been noted for their anti-cancer properties, which further emphasizes their potential health benefits. The details of the research were published in Scientific Reports, and researchers are optimistic about the possible benefits these drugs could offer in combating alcohol abuse and related health issues.