Semaglutide may curb alcohol cravings but proven treatment options for alcohol misuse remain superior, warns expert

New research suggests that semaglutide, which is the active ingredient used in the weight‑loss drug Wegovy and diabetes treatment Ozempic, may also reduce alcohol cravings. However, while early studies show promise, the NHS doesn’t currently approve semaglutide for alcohol reduction. A leading expert in alcohol reduction is calling for caution, pointing out that semaglutide is not licensed for treating alcohol misuse and that established, evidence‑based treatments for addiction already exist.

“Semaglutide has changed the landscape when it comes to weight management and treatment for type 2 diabetes, but it’s not a silver bullet for everything,” says Harvey Bhandal, MD at Sinclair Method UK, specialists in long‑term alcohol reduction treatment.

“The latest research published in Scientific American notes that individuals taking GLP‑1 drugs such as semaglutides showed a lower risk of substance use, including alcohol. And some scientists are now exploring whether semaglutides could be repurposed to help treat alcohol use disorder.

“But for now, the NHS only approves semaglutide for type 2 diabetes and weight loss in people with obesity. Any use for alcohol reduction is considered 'off‑label,' meaning it falls outside approved medical guidelines.

“The science is intriguing but it’s far too soon to recommend these injections for anything beyond their licensed use. We need large‑scale, controlled clinical trials before anyone can call this a realistic treatment option for problem drinking."