The globally popular weight-loss drugs Ozempic and Wegovy may help not only with weight control but also in reducing addiction to alcohol and some drugs, new research has suggested.
The two drugs belong to the class of GLP-1 receptor agonists. They were originally developed to control type-2 diabetes and work by mimicking the action of the GLP-1 hormone that the body produces naturally, which helps control blood-sugar levels, slow digestion and maintain a feeling of fullness for longer.
Scientists are now examining whether these drugs also affect the brain’s “reward system,” which plays an important role in controlling appetite, feelings of pleasure and addictive behaviour.
Studies have found that users of GLP-1 drugs drink comparatively less alcohol. Early research in animals has also indicated that the drugs may help reduce the use of substances such as cocaine, amphetamines, opioids and nicotine. Researchers believe such effects may arise from the interaction of GLP-1 drugs with the brain’s reward and motivation pathways.
According to experts, an intense craving for a particular food or drug is created by the brain’s reward system, and when this system becomes overactive it can lead to problems such as obesity, excessive drinking and drug addiction.
Despite the promising results, experts have advised caution, because research into the effectiveness of GLP-1 drugs in reducing addiction is still at an early stage, especially in humans. Larger and longer-term clinical studies are needed to confirm whether drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy can in future be used to treat addiction or substance dependence. At present these drugs are mainly approved and used for treating type-2 diabetes and controlling weight.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report