Abstract: Journal of Clinical Epidemiology and Public Health

Abstract:
Substance use disorders remain a major global public health concern, demanding innovative pharmacological approaches. This study investigates the therapeutic potential of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonists—specifically liraglutide—as an adjunct treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD) and related substance abuse conditions. Clinical dossier data and randomised controlled trials (RCTs) were analyzed to evaluate the effects of GLP-1R agonists on craving reduction and metabolic regulation in individuals with co-existing glycaemic disorders. The findings demonstrated significant decreases in opioid, heroin, and cocaine craving among participants receiving liraglutide, suggesting that metabolic stabilization may contribute to improved addiction management outcomes. These results highlight the relevance of GLP-1R agents in addiction medicine and support further research on their mechanisms of action and clinical safety in broader populations.