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UTEP Research Reveals Ozempic's Potential in Reducing Substance Abuse Risks

KVIA•Friday, June 12, 2026 at 6:03 PM•Lauren Bly

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A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) indicates that GLP-1 medications, such as Ozempic, significantly lower the likelihood of developing substance use disorders among patients with type 2 diabetes or obesity. Analyzing data from 142,000 cases, the researchers found that those prescribed GLP-1s had a 74% reduction in the risk of alcohol use disorder, 69% for opioid use disorder, 68% for nicotine use disorder, and 75% for cocaine use disorder. This research highlights the potential impact of these medications beyond appetite and blood sugar control, suggesting they may influence brain pathways related to addiction. The findings could inform future treatment options for substance abuse.

Key Details: • Study involved 142,000 patients, with 20,000 on GLP-1 medications. • Significant reductions in substance use disorder risks: 74% for alcohol, 69% for opioids, 68% for nicotine, and 75% for cocaine. • Research led by UTEP School of Pharmacy's Tadesse Abegaz, Ph.D., and Gabriel Frietze, Ph.D.

health utep research substance-abuse ozempic

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El PasoUTEPTadesse AbegazGabriel Frietze

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