American Addiction Centers

Addiction Talk

American Addiction Centers

  • Can Ozempic Help Treat Addiction? Dr. Gary Malone Explains GLP-1s for Substance Use

Can Ozempic Help Treat Addiction? Dr. Gary Malone Explains GLP-1s for Substance Use

Thursday 27th March 2025

Dr. Gary Malone discusses the potential of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic for treating addiction and highlights their risks and benefits.
25 minutes
Informative
Honest
Eye-opening
Supportive
Engaging

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Addiction Talk
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American Addiction Centers
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Sobriety Success Stories
Family Recovery from Addiction
Creative Recovery Journeys
Understanding Addiction & Recovery
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Can Ozempic Help Treat Addiction? Dr. Gary Malone Explains

Episode Overview

  • GLP-1 medications like Ozempic might reduce cravings by affecting brain pleasure centres.
  • Severe side effects include pancreatitis, liver damage, and low blood sugar.
  • No human studies have confirmed the effectiveness of GLP-1s for addiction.
  • FDA-approved medications like naltrexone are effective with fewer side effects.
  • Comprehensive treatment addressing emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects is crucial.
Recovery is hard. It is mind, body, spirit.
Ever wondered if the same medication that helps manage diabetes and aids weight loss could also treat addiction? In this episode of 'Addiction Talk', Dr. Gary Malone, Medical Director at Greenhouse Treatment Center, explores the potential of GLP-1 medications like Ozempic for substance use disorders. Dr. Malone, a top addiction psychiatrist, dives into the science behind GLP-1s and their impact on the brain's pleasure centres.
He explains how these medications might reduce cravings for substances like alcohol by affecting the same pathways involved in appetite control. However, he also highlights the lack of human studies and the severe side effects that come with these drugs. Dr. Malone shares his clinical experiences and the challenges faced by patients hoping for a quick fix. He stresses the importance of comprehensive treatment programs that address the emotional, psychological, and spiritual aspects of addiction recovery.
You'll hear about existing FDA-approved medications like naltrexone and Campral, which have proven effective without the severe side effects of GLP-1s. This episode is packed with expert insights and real-world examples that shed light on the complexities of addiction treatment. If you're curious about new developments in addiction medicine or looking for a deeper understanding of effective treatment strategies, this episode is a must-listen.