Date of Award

Spring 2026

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS)

Department

Physician Assistant Studies

First Advisor

Mindy Stavetig

Keywords

glucagon-like peptice-1 receptor agonist, substance use disorder, alcohol use disorder, addiction, cocaine use disorder, nicotine use disorder, opioid use disorder

Abstract

Alcohol and substance use disorders are chronic, relapsing conditions associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and healthcare burden. Although pharmacological treatments exist for certain substance use disorders, they are limited in availability and efficacy. Glucagon like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists are widely prescribed for treatment of diabetes and obesity and have a favorable safety profile. Emerging evidence suggests that these agents may also influence substance~related behaviors. This literature review evaluates current evidence of the role of GLP-l receptor agonists in alcohol, opioid, nicotine and cocaine use disorder. A literature search was conducted using PubMed and PsychINFO databases from April 2025 through July 2025. Included studies involved adult human population treated with GLP-l receptor agonist medication and assesses substance-related behavioral or clinical outcomes. Both randomized controlled trials and observational studies were reviewed, 9 studied met the inclusion criteria. Current literature at the time of this review suggests that GLP-I receptor agonists use was most consistently associated with reduced alcohol consumptioi1, decreased cravings, and lower rates of alcohol related hospitalizations. Evidence for opioid, nicotine and cocaine use disorders was more limited but suggested potential benefit in select populations. Study limitations included small sample sizes and short treatment durations. Current evidence indicates that GLP•I receptor agonists may represent a promising adjunctive therapy for substance use disorders, particularly alcohol use disorder, though fuller large-scale randomized trails are needed to confirm efficacy.

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