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 Cessation or Reduction of Alcohol Consumption in Veterans (CRAVE) trial, to test whether semaglutide (marketed as Ozempic and Wegovy) can treat alcohol use disorder in veterans. The trial 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. VA Secretary Doug Collins stated the goal is to expand treatment options for veterans. The department cautioned against self-medication and noted that larger controlled trials are needed to confirm safety and efficacy. Recruitment began July 28, 2026.