The Use of GLP-1 Agonists in Alcohol Use Disorder and Reducing Alcohol Consumption: A Scoping Review

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) reigns as one of the most pressing issues in the United States with high rates of complications, morbidity, and mortality. Recent studies have exhibited the potential for Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 (GLP-1) agonists to decrease alcohol cravings or alcohol-related adverse events through human and animal studies via reward and satiety signaling pathways. To investigate the ability of GLP-1 agonists to decrease alcohol use, alcohol cravings, and alcohol-related adverse events, this study conducted a scoping review of the current literature to uncover the potential benefit of GLP-1 agonists in patients with AUD. A systematic search across 6 databases was conducted analyzing studies for Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) scores, number of alcoholic drinks consumed, and reported adverse events. Results demonstrated the ability of GLP-1 agonists to decrease alcohol use, particularly in obese patients, through nationwide surveys and clinical trials. Additionally, GLP-1 agonists demonstrated effectiveness in preventing alcohol-related adverse events after 3-6 months of treatment, but not long-term. The current data suggests GLP-1s as a potential treatment option or additive for patients with AUD. Higher-quality, large-scale controlled studies are needed to confirm the efficacy of GLP-1 agonists in treating AUD.