Title : Association between GLP-1/SGLT2 medication use and alcohol consumption patterns: A cross-sectional survey study
Abstract:
Over 80% of Vermonters are overweight or obese, and more than 55,000 have diabetes. GLP-1 receptor agonists aid in blood sugar control and weight loss, and emerging case reports and small scale trials suggest they may also reduce alcohol use. Access to effective treatments for alcohol use disorder is limited by available therapies, provider availability, and many patient factors. Given the increased use of GLP-1s for diabetes and for weight management, the role of these agents in the treatment of alcohol misuse is important. This study investigates the association between GLP-1 and SGLT2 medications and alcohol cravings and use. A cross-sectional patient-reported survey was distributed across three primary care clinics (2 urban/suburban and 1 rural) in VT. Data elements included demographic information, alcohol consumption (subset of AUDIT measure), and questions regarding the impact of the GLP-1 or SGLT2 medication on alcohol use or craving. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, logistic regression, Wilcoxon signed-rank, and chi-square tests. 106 respondents (mean age 56?±?11 years; 58% female; 59% with diabetes/pre-diabetes, and 27% non-drinkers) were included. 83% were using a GLP-1 and 17% were using an SGLT2. Among baseline drinkers, alcohol frequency significantly decreased after starting their medication (z = 5.53, p < 0.001). While GLP-1 users were more likely to report reduced use compared to SGLT-2 users, the difference was not statistically significant. Time to alcohol use decrease varied by diabetes status (p?=?0.002), with non-diabetics more likely to report decreased alcohol use within 1 week or 1 month. This pattern was not observed for appetite changes. Participants also reported fewer episodes of guilt with drinking and reduced binge episodes compared to before and after starting their medication. No association was found between time on medication and alcohol use change, magnitude of decreased drinking or overall satisfaction with the medication. In conclusion, GLP-1 medications may help reduce alcohol use and binge drinking, particularly among individuals without diabetes. Further research is needed to better understand the potential of these medications in addressing alcohol use disorder.
