Weight loss injections appear to be influencing more than just dietary habits, with a recent report suggesting a decrease in alcohol consumption among users. A survey highlighted that the frequency of alcohol intake dropped from approximately three days a week to two once individuals started using GLP-1 medications. Additionally, the average weekly alcohol intake decreased by 16%, moving from 4.3 to 3.6 units.
About 34% of those taking weight loss medications reported diminished cravings for alcohol. This online survey, which included 1,000 UK adults with 207 participants having used GLP-1 medications, was conducted by insight consultancy KAM alongside the charity Drinkaware.
Furthermore, 22% of GLP-1 users noted they felt the effects of alcohol more quickly, while 18% experienced unpleasant symptoms like nausea when consuming alcohol.
Despite these findings, a majority of 71% indicated that alcohol still plays a significant role in their enjoyment of social activities.
The study also suggested that the rising popularity of these medications might be altering the drinking habits of those who haven’t used them.
Nearly half of the non-users surveyed knew someone who had tried weight loss drugs. Among them, 30% reported drinking less during social gatherings with these individuals, and 20% mentioned changing their social activities, opting for coffee meetups or events centered around food instead.
Annabelle Bonus, director of research, impact and strategy at Drinkaware, said: “This report adds to our growing evidence of a shift towards moderation in the UK, as drinking behaviours continue to evolve alongside the rise of GLP-1 medications.
“We will continue to provide clear, evidence-based information and advice to everyone — whether they are using GLP 1 medications or not — helping people better understand their drinking and supporting moderation as a cultural norm across the UK.”
The survey findings were published in the report Drinking Differently: GLP-1 and Alcohol. Clinical trials of people taking weight loss jabs have found evidence of similar effects.
One study involving 48 people with alcohol-use disorder found that low doses of semaglutide cut the amount they drank by around 40%.
The findings, published in the journal JAMA Psychiatry, suggested the benefits of the jabs may be even greater than effects seen with existing drugs to curb alcoholism.
Researchers at the University of North Carolina in the US stressed that larger and longer studies would be needed.
