Semaglutide for Alcoholism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether Semaglutide, a medication typically used for weight management, can aid individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder, particularly after weight-loss surgery such as gastric bypass or sleeve gastrectomy. The goal is to determine if this medication effectively reduces alcohol use. Participants who have undergone weight-loss surgery in the past three years, have a BMI over 30, and meet the criteria for Alcohol Use Disorder may be suitable candidates. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants an opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot be using other weight loss medications or GLP-1 receptor agonists. It's best to discuss your specific medications with the study team.
Is there any evidence suggesting that Semaglutide is likely to be safe for humans?
Research has shown that semaglutide is generally safe for patients. In a study involving adults with alcohol use disorder, semaglutide did not cause serious side effects. Participants received weekly doses, and most tolerated the treatment well. Some experienced mild side effects like nausea or headache, but these were neither severe nor long-lasting.
The FDA has also approved semaglutide for other conditions, such as type 2 diabetes and weight management, indicating confidence in its safety. Although this trial is in an early stage, semaglutide's existing safety record in other uses is reassuring.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising for alcoholism?
Unlike the standard treatments for alcoholism, which often involve behavioral therapy and medications like naltrexone or acamprosate, semaglutide is gaining attention for its potential new approach. Semaglutide works by mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which can influence both appetite and reward pathways in the brain. This unique mechanism may help reduce alcohol cravings and consumption. Researchers are excited about semaglutide because it targets these pathways differently, offering a fresh strategy for managing alcohol use disorder.
What evidence suggests that Semaglutide might be an effective treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder?
Research has shown that semaglutide, which participants in this trial may receive, can help individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder reduce cravings for alcohol and decrease consumption. Specifically, studies found that over nine weeks, semaglutide significantly decreased the desire to drink and reduced alcohol intake by about two standard drinks. It also reduced heavy drinking days by 57% compared to those not taking the drug. These results suggest that semaglutide might effectively help individuals drink less and better manage their alcohol use.13567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Valentina Ivezaj, PhD
Principal Investigator
Yale University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with obesity who've had bariatric surgery in the last 3 years, have Alcohol Use Disorder but no other substance abuse or severe psychiatric conditions. Participants must be willing to follow study procedures for up to 9 months and use effective contraception if of reproductive potential.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive Semaglutide with dose escalation over three months
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Semaglutide
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Yale University
Lead Sponsor