GLP-1 Drugs Reduce Overdose and Suicide Risk

A recent study published in the journal Addiction has found that GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, Wegovy, and Mounjaro, may significantly reduce opioid overdose and alcohol intoxication rates among individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD). The analysis, involving over 500,000 patients, showed a 40% reduction in opioid overdose rates and a 50% reduction in alcohol intoxication rates for those prescribed these medications, compared to those without prescriptions. The drugs, initially designed for diabetes and obesity, interact with the brain's mesolimbic system, which overlaps with pathways influencing addictive behaviors, suggesting a new therapeutic avenue for substance use disorders. Additionally, a separate study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that adolescents with obesity taking GLP-1 medications had a 33% lower risk of suicidal thoughts compared to those receiving lifestyle interventions, indicating a favorable psychiatric safety profile. These findings highlight the potential of GLP-1 drugs in treating both substance use and mental health disorders.