What is the new 'Ozempic of alcohol' pill?

The pill is naltrexone, which reduces the brain's pleasure signals from alcohol, thereby decreasing cravings.

How effective is naltrexone for reducing alcohol intake?

Studies show nearly 80% of users drastically reduce or eliminate drinking when taking naltrexone before consuming alcohol.

Can GPs prescribe naltrexone for binge drinking in the UK?

Currently, naltrexone is primarily reserved for severe alcoholics, though experts advocate for wider prescription for binge drinkers.

Home / Health / New Pill Halves Christmas Booze Intake

New Pill Halves Christmas Booze Intake

7 Dec

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Summary

Naltrexone pill reduces alcohol desire by blocking pleasure signals.
Four out of five users drastically reduce or quit drinking alcohol.
NHS currently reserves naltrexone for severe alcoholics, not binge drinkers.

A medication known as naltrexone, costing approximately £3 per dose, is showing remarkable potential in reducing alcohol consumption, with experts likening its impact to weight-loss drugs like Ozempic. This pill functions by diminishing the brain's pleasure response to alcohol, thereby decreasing the urge to drink more. Studies reveal that nearly 80% of individuals who take naltrexone before consuming alcohol either significantly cut back or cease drinking entirely.

Despite its proven effectiveness, naltrexone is currently restricted by the NHS for individuals with severe alcoholism. However, specialists argue that millions who engage in binge drinking but are not classified as alcoholics are being overlooked. The medication works by blocking the brain receptors that alcohol typically binds to, reducing the euphoric sensations that contribute to addiction and the subsequent craving for more drinks.