Pill versions of GLP-1 weight-loss injectables have been found to reduce heavy drinking in adults according to a new study.

Wegovy in pill format went on sale in the US in January and was released in the UK last month, while Eli Lilly has just released two GLP-1 drugs in the US in pill form—Zepbound or Foundayo.

A clinical trial led by researchers at CU Anschutz has found that oral semaglutide, a medication widely used for diabetes and weight loss, reduces heavy drinking in adults with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD).

The study, published in The American Journal of Psychiatry, evaluated the oral formulation of semaglutide, which the researchers said may be more acceptable for people with AUD than the injectable formulations previously tested for AUD.

“This study suggests oral semaglutide may help reduce heavy and harmful drinking, even in people who are not trying to quit alcohol entirely,” said Joseph Schacht, PhD, associate professor at the CU Anschutz School of Medicine in the Department of Psychiatry.

“It could represent a new treatment option for AUD, particularly for those who have not benefited from existing medications, and may reduce alcohol-related health and social harms. Importantly, even reducing heavy drinking can lead to meaningful improvements for patients and families.”

AUD is a chronic medical condition in which individuals have difficulty controlling alcohol use despite harmful consequences. It affects millions of people and remains difficult to treat, with limited medication options available. No new medications have been approved for AUD in nearly two decades, underscoring the urgent need for additional treatment approaches.

In an eight-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving 50 adults seeking treatment for moderate-to-severe AUD, participants receiving oral semaglutide showed:

• Fewer heavy drinking days
• Reduced alcohol consumption per drinking occasion
• Lower day-to-day alcohol cravings
• Fewer alcohol-related problems
• Improved overall drinking risk level
• Reduced cannabis use days

CU Anschutz and partner institutions are planning to conduct larger trials soon.