A recent study published in Addiction reveals that medications like Ozempic, traditionally used to treat diabetes and weight-related conditions, might have promising potential in reducing opioid and alcohol use disorder (OUD and AUD). Ozempic, a GLP-1 receptor agonist, influences the brain’s reward system, which is linked to addictive behaviors, leading to a 40% decrease in opioid overdose and a 50% reduction in alcohol intoxication for patients using these medications.
For stock investors, this development opens up opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly companies involved in GLP-1 treatments and addiction recovery solutions.
Three companies that could benefit from this evolving market:
Novo Nordisk (NVO)
Novo Nordisk, the maker of Ozempic, is leading the field in GLP-1 therapies. Their expanding research into new applications for these drugs, beyond diabetes and obesity, gives them a solid advantage in the market. Chart
Eli Lilly (LLY)
Eli Lilly, with their product Mounjaro, another GLP-1 RA, stands to benefit significantly. As more research points to the effectiveness of GLP-1 medications for substance use disorders, their reach in this field can broaden. Chart
Pfizer (PFE)
Pfizer’s vast experience in addiction treatment solutions positions them to innovate or partner with companies like Novo Nordisk and Eli Lilly, integrating new treatments into their portfolio. Chart
These companies are poised to capitalize on the expanding use of GLP-1 drugs for addiction treatment, a development that could reshape the pharmaceutical industry and offer investors a unique opportunity.