Diabetes drug tirzepatide cuts alcohol cravings by half in lab tests

A drug originally used for diabetes could soon help people struggling with alcohol addiction. Research from the University of Gothenburg shows that tirzepatide, the active ingredient in Mounjaro, slashed alcohol consumption by more than half in animal tests. Scientists believe it may also prevent relapses by altering the brain's reward system over time.

Tirzepatide works differently from existing addiction treatments. It targets two key receptors—GIP and GLP-1—which may give it a stronger effect on addictive behaviour than drugs like semaglutide. Studies suggest it reduces cravings by dampening the brain's dopamine response to alcohol.

The drug's impact might not be temporary. Early findings point to long-term biological changes, including epigenetic modifications that could permanently alter addictive patterns. Despite these promising results, no human trials have yet been submitted to regulators like the EMA or FDA.

Because tirzepatide is already approved for diabetes, the path to approval for alcohol dependence could move faster. Still, more human studies are needed before it can be prescribed for this new use.

If approved, tirzepatide would offer a fresh approach to treating alcohol addiction. It could become the first medication to tackle both cravings and relapse risk through lasting brain changes. For now, researchers are preparing the next steps to bring it from animal labs to clinical practice.