Exploring the effects of oral semaglutide on alcohol cravings and consumption
Official title: An exploratory randomized controlled trial of the effects of oral semaglutide on alcohol craving and consumption
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10747743 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a diabetes and obesity medication called oral semaglutide can help people with Alcohol Use Disorder feel less cravings for alcohol and drink less, and it’s open to individuals who want to reduce their alcohol consumption.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AA031146-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10747743 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults seeking treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder who are motivated to reduce their alcohol consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Alcohol Use Disorder or those who are not seeking treatment for their alcohol consumption may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of oral semaglutide, a medication typically used for diabetes and obesity, to reduce cravings and consumption of alcohol in individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The study will involve randomly assigning participants to receive either semaglutide or a placebo, allowing researchers to compare the effects on alcohol intake. By targeting the brain's reward system, the research aims to determine if this medication can help individuals struggling with alcohol dependence. Participants will be monitored throughout the trial to assess changes in their drinking behavior and cravings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment option for individuals with Alcohol Use Disorder, potentially reducing their cravings and consumption of alcohol.
How similar studies have gone: While previous research has explored the effects of GLP-1 agonists on alcohol consumption, this specific trial of oral semaglutide represents a novel approach in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Schacht, Joseph P. — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Schacht, Joseph P.
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.