News & Politics

Colorado researchers lead trial studying if weight-loss drugs can curb alcohol cravings

📚 Main Topics

Dry JanuaryMany individuals are starting the new year by abstaining from alcohol.
Research on Alcohol Use DisorderA study at CU Anschutz is exploring the effectiveness of a weight loss medication in reducing alcohol cravings.
SemaglutideThe medication being tested, which is a pill form of the injectable drug Ozempic, shows promise in helping individuals manage their alcohol consumption.

✨ Key Takeaways

Alcohol Use DisorderA significant issue affecting millions of Americans, with alcohol-related deaths increasing by over 30% since 2019.
Current Treatment OptionsThere are three FDA-approved medications for alcohol use disorder, but they have limited effectiveness.
Trial ProgressInitial data from the trial indicates that semaglutide may help participants reduce their alcohol intake, allowing them to enjoy moderate drinking rather than excessive consumption.
Future ResearchThe trial is ongoing, with further investigation needed into the timing of the medication's effects on cravings and the necessity of continued use.

🧠 Lessons

Hope for New TreatmentsThe research offers hope for more effective treatments for alcohol use disorder, an area that has seen little advancement in recent years.
Importance of Clinical TrialsOngoing studies are crucial for discovering new solutions to complex health issues like alcohol addiction.
Personal Experiences MatterParticipant feedback highlights the potential for improved quality of life through better management of drinking habits.

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Transcript excerpt

0:00 A good number of people are gonna kick off dry January tomorrow, give themselves a break from alcohol to start the new year. Nine News reporter Rachel Kraus is joining us now, and Rachel, researchers in Colorado are studying a medication used for weight loss to see if it also helps with alcohol abuse. Yeah, researchers at CU Anschutz are halfway through a trial to see if a weight loss drug could help people lose that drive to drink, and initial data shows it's working. Alcohol use disorder is something millions of Americans deal with, but cutting down or quitting altogether isn't easy.

0:30 This is an area in which we haven't had something that we felt hopeful about in a while. Joseph Schoed with CU Ansch says this is a problem with deadly consequences for some, and it's been growing for years. We know that alcohol related deaths have increased over 30%. 2019 Schock's lab focuses on alcohol use disorder, looking for medications that can help. He says there are 3 FDA approved options to help, and they don't work that well. For a long time we've been looking for a drug that might be more effective.

🔒 The full, searchable transcript is available with Pro.

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