ORN Spring 2025 - GLP-1 receptor agonists for the treatment of substance use disorders: A review-2025-05-14 - Recording ORN Spring 2025

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The webinar, as presented by Dr. Joji Suzuki, focused on GLP-1 receptor agonists and their potential treatment implications for substance use disorders. Dr. Suzuki, a prominent figure in addiction psychiatry, shared insights into the burgeoning interest around GLP-1 agonists for treating such disorders, highlighting their established use in managing diabetes and obesity due to their effects on insulin release, appetite suppression, and satiety.<br /><br />In the context of substance use disorders, these medications show promise in reducing cravings, which is a central issue driving addiction. Early results from preclinical studies and observational data suggest GLP-1 agonists like semaglutide might lower alcohol consumption and decrease opioid-related overdoses, although clinical trial data remains nascent and mixed. Concerns about side effects, such as gastrointestinal issues and potential pancreatic effects, were noted, emphasizing the necessity for cautious application, particularly until more comprehensive, rigorous studies further validate these findings.<br /><br />Dr. Suzuki underscored the rapid evolution and expansion of GLP-1 receptor agonists, pointing out various ongoing clinical trials targeting alcohol, tobacco, and opioid use disorders, among others. However, he stressed that while these preliminary findings are promising, GLP-1 treatments are not yet ready to replace existing therapies for addiction, which are still underutilized but have established efficacy.<br /><br />With a multitude of studies in progress, Dr. Suzuki expressed optimism about the potential future role of GLP-1 receptor agonists in addiction treatment but advocated for their judicious use and a deeper understanding of their mechanisms and broader impacts.

Keywords

GLP-1 receptor agonists

substance use disorders

Dr. Joji Suzuki

addiction psychiatry

semaglutide

cravings reduction

clinical trials

opioid use disorder

alcohol consumption

treatment implications