Ozempic maker Novo Nordisk says it will study drug's effects on alcohol consumption but isn't focused on addiction

When Cheri Ferguson started taking a medication called Ozempic, she hoped it would help her lose weight. Ozempic is approved for type 2 diabetes but is also used off-label for weight loss. In addition to achieving her weight loss goals, Ferguson experienced a reduction in her desire to drink alcohol and vape. Thousands of people taking similar medications have reported experiencing similar effects. The maker of Ozempic, Novo Nordisk, announced that it plans to study the effects of the medication on alcohol consumption. The company’s trial will focus on assessing the medication’s impact on liver health, with changes in alcohol consumption as a secondary endpoint. Researchers in addiction science have welcomed this development, as additional treatment options are needed for alcohol-related issues.