"Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) is a hormone responsible for most of the insulin release after consuming a meal. Its effects are mediated by activation of GLP-1 receptors (GLP-1Rs) in the central nervous system, which help regulate hunger signals that prompt people to eat when hungry and stop when satisfied (Fig. 1). The introduction of GLP-1 therapeutics has revolutionized the treatment of type 2 diabetes and obesity, with other potential indications under investigation."
"One such additional indication is the treatment of substance use disorder. Because reward pathways that contribute to pathological overeating and obesity are also implicated in addiction (Fig. 1), scientists have begun to explore GLP-1 therapeutics as possible treatments for substance use disorders. Early studies suggest that these drugs may lower cravings and use for alcohol, tobacco, and even opioids. These studies are described in a recent review published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society."
GLP-1 is a hormone that triggers most postprandial insulin release through activation of central GLP-1 receptors that regulate hunger and satiety. GLP-1 receptor agonists have transformed type 2 diabetes and obesity treatment and are under investigation for additional indications. Shared reward circuitry between pathological overeating and addiction provides a rationale for applying GLP-1 therapeutics to substance use disorders. Preclinical studies in rodents and nonhuman primates report reduced alcohol intake with dulaglutide, liraglutide, semaglutide, and exendin-4. Human evidence includes pharmacoepidemiological reports, anecdotal reductions, and randomized trials where exenatide and semaglutide lowered alcohol consumption and craving.
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