GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may help lower impulsive and violent behaviors. Researchers found weaker associations between impulsivity, alcohol use, and violent behavior among GLP-1 users.

A recent study found that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy may help lower impulsive and violent behaviors. The researchers noted that higher impulsivity and alcohol use were significantly associated with violent behavior overall, but were weaker among those using GLP-1s. The study was published on June 17 in Criminology.

Study Findings

The researchers analyzed data from a 2025 survey of 7,521 adults in the United States, focusing on the 821 individuals who had ever used a GLP-1 drug. They compared current GLP-1 medication users with former users and examined whether using the medications changed the relationship between impulsivity, violent behavior, and alcohol use. The researchers found that the association between impulsivity and violent behavior was about 62% weaker among current GLP-1 medication users compared with former users of the medications.

Expert Insights

Experts say the effects of GLP-1s on mental health are nuanced. According to Matt Glowiak, PhD, chief addiction specialist at Recovered, 'We're seeing early evidence that GLP-1s may reduce cravings not just for food, but for alcohol and other substances, which has significant implications for addiction treatment.' However, Glowiak also noted that 'some individuals report improved well-being or reduced 'mental noise' around cravings, while others may struggle with identity shifts, restrictive patterns, or unrealistic expectations.'