Semaglutide Shows Promise in Reducing Opioid Overdose Risk, Study Finds

A study suggests that the diabetes and weight-loss drug could lower opioid overdose risk in patients with Type 2 diabetes and opioid use disorder.

Researchers at Case Western Reserve University analyzed six years of electronic health records from nearly 33,000 patients with Type 2 diabetes and opioid use disorder.
Patients prescribed semaglutide had a significantly lower risk of opioid overdose compared to those on other diabetes medications, including insulin and DPP-4 inhibitors.
The study found a 58% lower risk of opioid overdose among patients taking semaglutide, but further clinical trials are needed to confirm these findings.
Semaglutide, found in drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, is already known for its benefits in managing diabetes and weight loss.
Despite promising results, the study's authors emphasize the need for more research to understand the mechanisms behind semaglutide's potential effects on opioid use disorder.