VA launches nationwide trial testing semaglutide for alcohol use disorder in veterans

Published Jul 30, 06:11 PM UTC

The Department of Veterans Affairs has launched a nationwide clinical trial, the CRAVE trial, to test whether semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy) can treat alcohol use disorder in veterans. Over 400,000 veterans have been diagnosed with the condition. The 24-week study will enroll more than 600 veterans aged 18-80 at 18 VA medical centers, with participants receiving weekly injections of semaglutide or a placebo. Researchers will measure changes in alcohol consumption, health, and quality of life. VA Secretary Doug Collins stated the trial aims to expand treatment options for veterans. Recruitment began July 28, 2026. The VA cautioned against self-medication and noted that larger controlled trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy.