We’ve been covering weight loss drugs in terms of combating addiction for a while now (check out Steve O’Keefe’s posts here and here), and we will continue to do so going forward, because more research keeps coming in, and it’s a fascinating topic all around.

Weight loss drugs such as Ozempic and Wegovy have been making headlines for their impact on appetite and obesity. But new research suggests these medications might do more than curb hunger — they could also help people reduce addictive behaviors.

A recent study from Levity revealed that people taking GLP-1 medications report drinking less, smoking less, and even losing interest in other compulsive habits. The findings raise big questions about whether these drugs could one day be prescribed for addiction treatment.

Key findings from the study

Dr. Sophie Dix, Head of Medical Affairs at Levity, shared insights into the results. According to the study:

• 73% of patients said GLP-1s helped them cut down on substance use.
• 29% quit altogether.
• 54% reduced alcohol use by an average of 58%.
• 63% reported fewer drug or alcohol slips.
• 77% noticed fewer cravings within just four weeks.

“It’s interesting that benefits were felt in domains such as compulsive spending and gambling, as well as consumption of alcohol, drugs, and smoking,” Dr. Dix explained. (Links added by AddictionNews.)

Age matters in results

The study also found that results varied by age group. Younger participants appeared to benefit more than older ones.

Dr. Dix said:

For example, 71% of baby boomers said they used drugs less, and 58% had fewer relapses. In contrast, 82% of Gen-Z participants reported less drug use and 80% had fewer relapses… This could be that unhealthy behaviors are more ‘hard-wired’ in the older participants, both from a biological and behavioral point of view. Regardless of the generational differences in the size of the effect, it is still a marked improvement across all groups.

Why might GLP-1s work on addictions?

Researchers believe the drugs may quiet the brain’s “reward system” — the mechanism that fuels cravings and addictions. Still, Dr. Dix cautions that the research is early.

The study was survey-based and not a randomized clinical trial, so it’s not possible to say for sure that the medications alone caused the changes. Dr. Dix noted:

Four in five of those surveyed felt that their ability to control impulsive behaviours had improved since starting GLP-1s.

Participants also described swapping bad habits for healthier alternatives. The results were striking:

• 48% replaced drug use with exercise.
• 44% replaced it with rest or sleep.
• 41% replaced it with therapy or journaling.

Dr. Dix explained:

We can’t be sure whether participants were making general efforts to live a healthier lifestyle, or whether the GLP-1s alone curbed impulses that made it easier to make lifestyle changes… We do know that GLP-1s affect the part of the brain that processes rewards. So, by muting the buzz that drives people towards addictions such as drugs, food, alcohol or gambling, it makes it easier for them to engage with healthy alternatives and kick the habit.

Beyond weight loss

Although Ozempic and Wegovy are typically prescribed for weight loss and blood sugar control, their potential goes beyond food cravings. Here’s another quote from Dr. Dix:

GLP-1s are not currently approved for treating addictions, but there are research studies ongoing… If someone is already taking them for a licensed indication (weight loss or T2DM) and has a habit they want to kick, they may find it easier while taking the medication. It will likely boost the power of psychological therapies and help more people live happy, healthy lives free from addiction.

Written by Tatyana Meshcheryakova. First published September 9, 2025.

Sources:

“Weight loss drugs may be helping Gen Z’s get sober, study finds,” Consumer Affairs, August 27, 2025.

“Can Ozempic Help With Addiction? New Survey Reveals Promising Signs,” Levity.com, May 30, 2025.

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