Can modern weight loss medications interfere not only with our appetite, but also with everyday habits related to pleasure and addictions? New research shows that GLP-1 drugs, such as Ozempic and Wegovy, affect not only metabolism but also cravings for alcohol, gambling, and even the risk of developing dementia. In this article, we will examine how these drugs can change patients’ lives and why they are sparking debates among scientists and doctors.
Patients choose modern drugs and hope for quick results
In recent years, GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) based drugs have been rapidly gaining popularity. The main representatives of this group—semaglutide, Ozempic, and Wegovy—were originally developed for the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity. Now, more than 15 million adults in the US alone are taking them, and the cost of a monthly course can reach $1,400.
GLP-1 drugs are prescribed to control blood sugar levels and reduce body weight. However, attention to these medications is fueled not only by their effectiveness in fighting excess weight, but also by reports of unexpected changes in patient behavior.
Studies reveal unexpected sides of GLP-1 action
Scientists have found that GLP-1 drugs can reduce not only appetite but also cravings for alcohol, gambling, and even opioids. For example, in studies conducted in Sweden and the US, patients taking semaglutide were less likely to be hospitalized for alcohol dependence and reported a decreased desire to consume alcohol.
Some patients note that they have become less interested in gambling, smoking, and even online shopping. In addition, the influence of these drugs on sexual desire is being discussed: some studies indicate a decrease, others—an increase. There is also data on a possible reduction in the risk of dementia, but so far most studies are small in scale and require confirmation.
Experts explain why the drugs affect habits and addictions
GLP-1 is a hormone that regulates insulin secretion and reduces feelings of hunger. Drugs that mimic the action of GLP-1 affect the brain’s reward system, which is responsible for pleasure, motivation, and the formation of habits.
The brain’s reward system works like an internal motivator: it releases dopamine when we eat tasty food, play games, or experience other pleasant sensations. GLP-1 reduces dopamine release, decreasing the pleasure from familiar stimuli.
Patients taking these drugs often notice that they become less interested in alcohol, cigarettes, or gambling. Scientists suggest that the drugs reduce the strength of the habit by decreasing the pleasure from the action, whether it is overeating, drinking, or compulsive shopping.
Scientists are searching for a link between the drugs and reduced risk of dementia
Recent observations have shown that patients with type 2 diabetes who took semaglutide had a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease than those who received other drugs. GLP-1 may protect the brain in several ways:
- Reducing inflammation in nerve tissue
- Preventing the formation of amyloid plaques and tau proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease
- Improving signal transmission between nerve cells
- Supporting the growth of new neurons and protecting against damage
Large-scale clinical studies are being conducted to assess how long-term use of GLP-1 affects memory and cognitive functions in people of different ages. However, so far the results remain preliminary, and the effect of the drugs depends on their ability to penetrate the brain.
Initial results raise questions and require further research
Expert opinions are divided on how widely and in whom the positive effects of GLP-1 manifest. Among the controversial issues highlighted are:
- Whether effectiveness depends on the presence of obesity or other factors
- Whether the drugs affect different types of addiction equally
- How long the effect lasts after discontinuation
- Whether adverse reactions may occur if treatment is stopped
Doctors emphasize that most data so far have been obtained from small studies or observations of individual patients. Large, long-term, and randomized clinical trials are needed for confident conclusions.
Side effects raise concerns among doctors and patients
Since GLP-1 drugs affect the reward system, the question arises: do they blunt the joy of life and other positive emotions? Data on sexual desire are contradictory: some patients report increased libido, others—a decrease.
In one study on young men, the drug did not affect sexual desire, and thematic analysis of reviews revealed both positive and negative changes. So far, doctors do not have enough information to confidently speak about the scale and frequency of such effects.
A healthy lifestyle remains important even when taking medications
GLP-1 drugs do not replace proper nutrition and physical activity. Their effectiveness is maximized only in combination with changes in habits, because:
- Reducing calorie intake enhances the effect of the drugs
- Physical activity helps maintain weight after the course ends
- Forming new habits reduces the risk of weight regain
One of the pressing issues remains weight regain after discontinuation: doctors and patients discuss whether it is possible to safely stop treatment without losing the achieved results. Therefore, it is important to approach the use of these drugs consciously and be sure to consult a specialist.
Modern weight loss drugs open new horizons in the fight not only against obesity, but also against addictions and cognitive disorders. However, their capabilities and limitations still need to be thoroughly studied in order to draw final conclusions about their benefits and safety for different groups of patients.
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