New research from insight consultancy KAM has revealed a 29% reduction in how often users of GLP-1 drugs consume alcohol.
The new report, Drinking Differently: GLP-1 and Alcohol – produced in conjunction with Drinkaware – shows that weight loss injection are already having a measurable impact on alcohol consumption. The findings show that after starting GLP‑1 medication, average drinking frequency drops from 3.1 to 2.2 days per week (a 29% reduction) while average alcohol consumption falls from 4.3 to 3.6 units per week, representing a 16% decrease in overall alcohol intake.
Commenting on the findings, Peter Thnoia, Superintendent Pharmacist at NHS pharmacy PillTime, says society is starting to change now we approach alcohol – with many patients giving up alcohol altogether.
“Many say they simply don’t have the same appetite for alcohol, or that if they do drink, they feel fuller much sooner – sometimes even after just one or two drinks.
“Weight loss medications work on appetite and satiety signals, which don’t just affect food but can also reduce the desire to drink alcohol. Some patients also report feeling the effects more quickly, or experiencing nausea or discomfort when drinking, which naturally leads them to cut back without actively trying to.”
Even drinking in moderation, Peter says it’s important patients approach with care: “Drinking excessively can increase the risk of side effects like dehydration, dizziness and gastrointestinal discomfort, particularly when combined with these medications. It can also place additional strain on the pancreas, which in some cases may lead to inflammation. Moderating alcohol intake can help reduce the risk of more serious side effects, which could otherwise impact treatment or mean it has to be stopped altogether.
Peter says moderation is now “becoming our new normal”, as a society: “Drinking and eating habits have always evolved with wider societal trends, and with weight loss treatment uptake continuing to rise, this is likely to accelerate, creating a more health-focused consumer that supermarkets and hospitality will need to adapt to.”
