Drugs from the GLP-1 receptor agonist class, previously used mainly for type 2 diabetes and obesity, may also influence the development and course of certain addictions, according to new studies. Experts, however, caution that current evidence is preliminary and requires further confirmation.
BMJ, 4 March 2026 | A new commentary published in the British Medical Journal (BMJ) summarises epidemiological analyses and clinical studies suggesting that GLP-1 receptor agonists may affect brain mechanisms associated with craving, the intense desire for addictive substances. This topic is particularly significant because addictions to alcohol, nicotine, or drugs remain major health and social challenges, and pharmacological treatment options are limited.
Of particular interest was an analysis of health data from U.S. veterans with type 2 diabetes, which, using a “target trial” model, indicated that patients treated with GLP-1 receptor agonists had a lower risk over three years of developing disorders related to alcohol, nicotine, cocaine, or opioids compared with patients using other antidiabetic medications. Among individuals with pre-existing addiction, GLP-1 treatment was also associated with fewer addiction-related hospitalisations, fewer overdoses, and lower mortality, although absolute differences were relatively small.
A possible biological explanation is that GLP-1 receptors are located not only in the pancreas and digestive system but also in the brain, where they may influence dopamine pathways within the reward system. Experimental studies and early clinical trials, for example using semaglutide in patients with alcohol dependence, indicate reductions in craving and lower alcohol consumption. The authors emphasise, however, that available data may be affected by numerous confounding factors and that results cannot yet be generalised to the wider population.
Summary
Current research suggests that GLP-1 receptor agonists could potentially expand future addiction treatment options. For now, however, this represents a promising research direction rather than an established therapeutic standard.
Source
BMJ 2026; 392 doi: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj-2025-086886
