Novo Nordisk Clarifies GLP-1 Addiction Research Focus Amid Industry Buzz

Novo Nordisk, a leading player in the GLP-1 receptor agonist market, has clarified its stance on addiction-related research for its flagship drugs, semaglutide and Wegovy. This comes amid growing industry interest in exploring the potential of GLP-1 medications beyond their current indications for diabetes and weight loss.

Ongoing Clinical Trials and Future Plans

Despite earlier reports suggesting an expansion into addiction studies, Novo Nordisk has confirmed that its current research in this area is limited to an ongoing Phase II trial. This study, which began in May 2024, is primarily investigating the effects of semaglutide and two other compounds—cagrilintide and NNC0194-0499—on alcoholic liver disease. While alcohol consumption is included as a secondary endpoint, the company has no immediate plans to broaden its research into other addiction indications.

A Novo spokesperson stated, "There is nothing else in terms of clinical trials we have ongoing in this space at the moment," contradicting initial interpretations of comments made by Martin Holst Lange, Novo's head of development, at a recent online conference.

Competitive Landscape and Industry Trends

The clarification from Novo Nordisk comes in contrast to the strategy of its main competitor, Eli Lilly. In December, Lilly's CEO David Ricks announced plans to initiate large-scale studies of their obesity drugs in alcohol and drug abuse starting next year. This divergence in approach highlights the evolving landscape of GLP-1 research and its potential applications.

The pharmaceutical industry's interest in addiction treatment extends beyond GLP-1 agonists. Other areas of focus include psychedelic therapies and vaccination approaches. For instance, the NIH awarded a $25 million grant in 2021 to Boston Children's Hospital researchers to study an opioid vaccine designed to prevent these molecules from crossing the blood-brain barrier.

Expanding Horizons: GLP-1s in Neurological Disorders

While Novo Nordisk may not be pursuing addiction studies aggressively, the company is making significant strides in exploring semaglutide's potential in neurological disorders. A real-world study from October 2024 linked semaglutide use in type 2 diabetes patients with a 40% to 70% reduction in Alzheimer's disease risk. Building on these promising results, Novo is currently conducting two Phase III trials, EVOKE and EVOKE Plus, specifically testing semaglutide in Alzheimer's patients. Results from these trials are anticipated in September 2025, potentially opening new avenues for GLP-1 therapies in neurodegenerative diseases.