GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and Alcohol Consumption
Author Information
Author(s): Subhani Mohsan, Dhanda Ashwin, King James A., Warren Fiona C., Creanor Siobhan, Davies Melanie J., Eldeghaidy Sally, Bawden Stephen, Gowland Penny A., Bataller Ramon, Greenwood Justin, Kaar Stephen, Bhala Neeraj, Aithal Guruprasad P.
Primary Institution: Nottingham Digestive Diseases Centre (NDDC), University of Nottingham
Hypothesis
Does the use of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) affect alcohol consumption?
Conclusion
GLP-1 RAs may reduce alcohol consumption in some individuals, particularly those with obesity, but the evidence is not consistent.
Supporting Evidence
- Two RCTs showed no significant reduction in alcohol consumption with exenatide.
- Subgroup analysis indicated a positive effect of GLP-1 RAs in individuals with obesity.
- Observational studies reported fewer alcohol-related healthcare events with GLP-1 RA treatment.
Takeaway
Some medicines that help with diabetes might also help people drink less alcohol, especially if they are overweight.
Methodology
This systematic review analyzed data from six studies, including two randomized controlled trials and several observational studies, to evaluate the impact of GLP-1 RAs on alcohol consumption.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the observational nature of some studies and variations in reporting outcomes.
Limitations
The studies included were heterogeneous in design and quality, and many had small sample sizes.
Participant Demographics
The pooled mean age was 49.6 years, with 56.9% male and 82.9% white in studies where ethnicity was reported.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.04
Confidence Interval
95% CI 0.52–0.97
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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