GLP-1 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Considering GLP-1 treatment?
Start with the facts.
Find answers to common questions about how GLP-1 medications may fit into recovery, including cravings, eligibility, safety, weight changes, insurance, and cost.
IMPORTANT CONTEXT
GLP-1 medications are not FDA-approved specifically for substance use disorders.
Research is still emerging. At Renew, medication decisions are individualized and considered as one part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
THE BASICS
How GLP-1 medications may help.
GLP-1 medications were developed for other conditions. Researchers are now studying how their effects on reward, appetite, and impulse control may relate to substance use cravings.
GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) medications are a class of drugs originally developed to treat type 2 diabetes and obesity. Common examples include semaglutide (Ozempic®, Wegovy®) and tirzepatide (Mounjaro®, Zepbound®). These medications work on areas of the brain involved in appetite, reward, satiation, and impulse control.
Research suggests GLP-1 medications may reduce cravings by affecting the brain’s reward pathways, which are involved in both eating behaviors and substance use. Many patients report fewer urges to use alcohol, nicotine, or other substances while taking these medications.
Early studies suggest GLP-1 medications may help reduce cravings and use of alcohol, nicotine, opioids, cocaine, and potentially other substances. The strongest evidence currently exists for alcohol use disorder, with emerging research in tobacco, opioids, stimulants, and other addictive behaviors. Use of GLP-1s has also been shown to reduce weight gain associated with nicotine cessation.
No. GLP-1 medications are not currently FDA-approved specifically for substance use disorders. However, a growing body of research—including clinical trials and observational studies—suggests they may be helpful as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Usually not. GLP-1 medications are generally considered an adjunctive treatment, meaning they are added to—not substituted for—evidence-based treatments such as counseling, behavioral therapies, buprenorphine, naltrexone, or other prescribed medications.
ELIGIBILITY + WEIGHT
Treatment is based on the whole picture.
Weight change is common with GLP-1 medications, so eligibility considers medical history, nutritional status, treatment goals, and the ability to remain within a healthy range.
Weight loss is a common effect of GLP-1 medications. However, the amount varies significantly between individuals. Some patients lose substantial weight, while others experience only modest changes.
This is an important discussion to have with your provider. Treatment decisions are individualized, and potential benefits for cravings and recovery must be weighed against the possibility of weight loss.
Possibly. Eligibility depends on multiple factors, including your medical history, current weight, nutritional status, substance use history, and overall treatment goals. Being thin does not automatically exclude you, but additional considerations may apply.
Yes. In order to initiate and remain on a GLP-1 medication, patients must maintain a BMI that is within healthy limits.
Because GLP-1 medications commonly cause weight loss, we want to ensure that any weight loss remains within a healthy and safe range. BMI requirements help identify patients who are most likely to benefit from treatment while minimizing the risk of excessive weight loss, malnutrition, or other unintended health consequences.
SAFETY + DURATION
What to discuss with your provider.
Medication should be prescribed and monitored appropriately. Your provider can help weigh potential benefits, side effects, treatment duration, and what to do if care changes.
Common side effects include:
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Constipation
• Stomach discomfort
• Reduced appetite
Most side effects are mild and improve over time. Serious side effects are uncommon but can occur and should be discussed with your provider.
The optimal duration for addiction treatment is still being studied. Many patients remain on GLP-1 medications for months or years, depending on their response, treatment goals, and side effects.
Some patients experience a return of cravings, appetite, or other symptoms after discontinuation. Your provider can help determine whether tapering, maintenance treatment, or alternative therapies are appropriate.
For most patients, GLP-1 medications are considered safe and well-tolerated when prescribed and monitored appropriately. As with any medication, risks and benefits should be reviewed with your healthcare provider.
COST + RESEARCH
Coverage, evidence, and outcomes.
Coverage and pricing vary, and the use of GLP-1 medications in addiction treatment is still developing. Renew’s approach is guided by research, safety, and individualized clinical care.
Coverage varies widely by insurance plan. Some plans cover GLP-1 medications for diabetes or obesity, but most do not cover them for substance use disorders.
Costs vary significantly depending on the medication, insurance coverage, and pharmacy. Without insurance coverage, monthly costs can range from several hundred to over one thousand dollars.
Renew also has a private pay option billed at a monthly rate without a yearlong commitment. Our admissions staff can discuss whether this option may be feasible for you.
No. Renew Health + Recovery’s interest in GLP-1 medications is based on emerging scientific evidence and their potential to improve recovery outcomes. Decisions regarding treatment are guided by research, patient safety, and individualized clinical care—not trends.
Often, yes. Cravings are one of the strongest predictors of recurrence. While reducing cravings does not guarantee recovery, lower craving levels are generally associated with improved treatment engagement, reduced substance use, improved overall health, and better long-term outcomes when combined with comprehensive addiction treatment.
We believe clients and healthcare providers should have access to the latest research. Renew has compiled a collection of published studies examining the use of GLP-1 medications for substance use disorder.
Read the research.
Explore published studies and emerging evidence about GLP-1 medications and substance use disorder.
Wondering if GLP-1 treatment may be right for you?
A conversation with Renew can help you understand the program, eligibility considerations, and what comes next.