Burnie Academy
GLP-1 medicines, craving, and addiction: emerging, not approved

GLP-1 medicines, craving, and addiction: emerging, not approved

Early research hints that GLP-1 medicines like semaglutide, liraglutide, and exenatide may quiet the brain's reward pathways and reduce alcohol craving, smoking reward, and possibly some behavioural addictions. This is promising but preliminary: small trials, animal data, and large observation studies. No GLP-1 medicine is approved to treat alcohol use disorder, smoking, or gambling, and larger trials are still running. This honest guide explains what the science shows and what it does not.

13 Jul 2026 · Burnie Academy
glp-1 addiction alcohol smoking

You may have heard that weight-loss injections like semaglutide and liraglutide seem to calm cravings, not just for food but also for alcohol and cigarettes. There is real biology behind this idea, and early research is genuinely interesting. But the honest truth matters here: this is emerging science, not settled medicine. No GLP-1 medicine is approved to treat alcohol use disorder, smoking, or gambling. The human trials so far are small, much of the evidence comes from animal studies and large observation studies, and bigger trials are still running. This guide gives you the plain picture, what the studies actually show, and what they do not show, so you do not jump to a dangerous conclusion about using these drugs to quit a habit.

CONTINUE READING FOR FREE

Unlock the complete article

Register with just your mobile number and OTP. No password and no payment.

Use this same phone number in the Burnie mobile app. Your profile, liked articles and favourites will stay synced.

By continuing, you agree to Burnie's Terms and Privacy Policy.

Track your food the honest way

Burnie helps you see your estimated calorie deficit with familiar Indian foods — no fake precision, no guilt trips.

Get Burnie on the App Store

Sign in with the same mobile number you use for Academy. Android public availability is being expanded.