New VA Clinical Trial to Assess Semaglutide for Alcohol Use Disorder

Key Takeaways:

• The US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is currently recruiting veterans to participate in a new clinical trial evaluating semaglutide as a potential treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD).
• The study is based on prior research suggesting an association between glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists and lower rates of substance abuse and health care utilization.
• The 24-week trial will enroll 600 veterans with AUD who will receive weekly injections of either semaglutide or placebo.

On July 30, 2026, the VA announced that it is currently recruiting participants for a new clinical trial aimed at assessing the effectiveness of semaglutide in treating AUD, a condition that affects nearly 400 000 US veterans.

Semaglutide is a GLP-1 receptor agonist approved for the treatment of diabetes. Previous research has demonstrated an association between patients receiving GLP-1 regimens and lower rates of AUD and other substance use disorders (SUDs).

In addition, patients with SUDs who receive GLP-1 medications like semaglutide experienced fewer emergency department visits and hospitalizations.

The Cessation or Reduction of Alcohol Consumption in Veterans trial will include 600 veterans with moderate to severe AUD across 18 VA medical centers. For 24 weeks, the participants will receive weekly injections of either semaglutide or placebo. Investigators will monitor changes in alcohol consumption, overall health, and quality of life.

According to VA Secretary Doug Collins, “By exploring emerging treatment options like the use of a GLP-1 for AUD, we aim to expand the tools available to help Veterans take control of their health and recovery.”

Veterans interested in participating can contact their local VA medical center or visit ClinicalTrials.gov.

Reference

VA launches trial of GLP-1 treatment for alcohol use disorder. VA News. Published July 30, 2026. Accessed August 4, 2026. https://news.va.gov/press-room/va-launches-trial-of-glp-1-treatment-for-alcohol-use-disorder/