The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs is launching a clinical trial to evaluate whether semaglutide, a GLP-1 receptor agonist used to treat diabetes, can treat alcohol use disorder among veterans, according to a July 30 news release.
The trial comes as evidence mounts that the drug has shown potential to reshape withdrawal management for substance use disorders. A study found GLP-1 receptor agonist use was associated with a 75% reduction in the odds of any substance use disorder among adults with Type 2 diabetes or obesity compared with non-user participants. For those with alcohol use disorder, odds were 74% lower among GLP-1 receptor agonist users.
Providers have also taken note. Wernersville, Pa.-based Caron Treatment Centers, a nonprofit substance use disorder provider with residential programs in Florida and Pennsylvania, has treated more than 230 patients with GLP-1 receptor agonists since incorporating the drugs into its withdrawal management protocol. The program expands on a collaborative study with the Penn State College of Medicine to explore the efficacy of GLP-1s for the treatment of opioid use disorder.
Here are four things to know about the trial:
1. More than 600 veterans will enroll. The Cessation or Reduction of Alcohol Consumption in Veterans trial will enroll more than 600 veterans at 18 VA medical centers nationwide. Participants ages 18 to 80 with moderate or severe alcohol use disorder will receive weekly injections of either semaglutide or a placebo for 24 weeks, followed by a safety follow-up.
2. The trial builds on emerging research. The department said GLP-1 use among people with existing substance use disorders has been associated with fewer emergency visits, hospitalizations and other adverse outcomes.
3. Alcohol use disorder affects hundreds of thousands of veterans. More than 400,000 veterans nationwide are diagnosed with alcohol use disorder, according to VA. The department also said some estimates indicate the condition affects nearly 11% of U.S. adults.
4. Recruitment is underway. Recruitment began July 28, 2026. Researchers will track changes in drinking, health and quality of life to determine whether semaglutide offers a meaningful new treatment option for veterans with alcohol use disorder.
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