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, called the CRAVE trial, to test whether semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy) can treat alcohol use disorder in veterans. The study will enroll over 600 veterans aged 18 to 80 at 18 VA medical centers. Participants with moderate or severe alcohol use disorder will receive weekly injections of either semaglutide or a placebo for 24 weeks, followed by a safety evaluation. Researchers will measure changes in alcohol consumption, overall health, and quality of life. The VA cited an analysis showing GLP-1 medications lower rates of substance use disorders. VA Secretary Doug Collins stated the goal is to expand treatment options for veterans. Recruitment began July 28, and interested veterans can contact their local VA medical center or search ClinicalTrials.gov.