Excessive alcohol consumption is a serious issue worldwide, often leading to alcohol use disorder (AUD) and contributing to mental health problems such as depression and anxiety.
Additionally, long-term alcohol misuse increases the risk of liver disease and other health complications.
While several treatment programs exist, they don’t work for everyone. Scientists are exploring new therapies that may help more people.
Some recent studies suggest that gut hormones—specifically glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP)—may affect both metabolism and addictive behaviors. These hormones are already used in medications for diabetes and obesity.
Researchers at the U.S. National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism analyzed genetic data to investigate whether GLP-1 and GIP-targeting drugs could reduce alcohol intake. Their study, published in Molecular Psychiatry, suggests that dual GLP-1 and GIP receptor agonists may lower alcohol consumption and improve liver health.
The researchers used Mendelian randomization to analyze data from the UK Biobank and the Million Veterans Program, exploring how natural genetic differences in GLP1R and GIPR expression correlate with alcohol use and liver function.
They found that genetic variants associated with appetite suppression and weight loss were also linked with reduced binge drinking and lower rates of heavy alcohol use among individuals with psychiatric conditions. These findings were replicated across independent datasets and different analytical models.
Interestingly, the same genetic markers were linked with a preference for healthier, vegetarian diets and a decreased liking for fatty foods. This highlights how metabolic and appetite regulation may influence alcohol-related behaviors.
Further, genetic variations affecting GLP1R and GIPR were associated with reduced markers of liver damage, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and lower levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT).
Although the study does not directly test GLP-1 or GIP-based drugs, it provides strong genetic evidence supporting their potential to reduce alcohol use. Clinical trials could be the next step in exploring these drugs as treatments for AUD.
These findings open the door to novel therapeutic options that address both metabolic health and alcohol-related conditions, offering hope for individuals struggling with AUD and its health consequences.
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