Semaglutide’s surprising side effect? I don’t want to drink as much.

ddsb1111
ddsb1111 Posts: 999 Member
in Health and Weight Loss

I’ve been maintaining my weight for about two years, but the food noise over the past 6+ months has been incredibly distracting and, honestly, exhausting. I wasn’t looking to lose weight again, I just needed a mental break.

After speaking with a doctor, we decided to try the smallest possible dose of semaglutide, not for weight loss, but to calm the obsessive thinking around food. I don’t even take it weekly, more like every 2–3 weeks, if that. And it’s helped tremendously.

But here’s what really shocked me- I completely lost the desire to drink. Even when I have a glass of something, I rarely finish it. It’s not a conscious choice, it just doesn’t sound good. No craving, no impulse. Just… neutral.

I don’t hear many people talk about using semaglutide in this way, or mention alcohol aversion as a benefit, but it’s been one of the most unexpected and welcomed effects.

And side effects? None so far, likely because of the tiny dose and the irregular schedule.

Just wanted to share, and curious if this has been the case for anyone else.

Replies

  • sollyn23l2
    sollyn23l2 Posts: 1,977 Member

    It's a well known side affect of it.

  • ddsb1111
    ddsb1111 Posts: 999 Member
    edited May 19

    I guess if you weren’t looking for that kind of side effect, you wouldn’t know to expect it, so it was a pleasant surprise. Honestly, I wouldn’t be shocked if semaglutide starts being used (if it isn’t already) in microdoses to help curb alcohol cravings or support those dealing with alcohol dependency.

  • Retroguy2000
    Retroguy2000 Posts: 2,062 Member

    The drugs may inhibit other compulsive behaviors like gambling and online shopping.

    Depending on your perspective, you may find it a good or a bad thing that behaviors unrelated to food may be influenced. And it makes me wonder what other decisions might be influenced by them.

  • 363days
    363days Posts: 579 Member

    Hmm, I'm having issues with binge eating and drinking. You mention you only take a small amount every 2-3 weeks…does it last that long or do you do it for an extra spark?

  • ddsb1111
    ddsb1111 Posts: 999 Member
    https://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/comment/48617381#Comment_48617381

    Great question. I usually wait that long between doses because I’m not using it for weight loss, I just want the mental break from constant food thoughts, and even with that spacing, I still get the benefit. It’s also not exactly cheap, so that plays a role too. Like you said, it just takes the edge off. I’m sure the dose and frequency really depend on the person. One thing I didn’t mention is that it took a good 4 weeks before I even realized I wasn’t craving alcohol, or even had a taste for it, anymore.

  • ddsb1111
    ddsb1111 Posts: 999 Member
    edited May 19

    @Retroguy2000 Agreed, if it can affect me this way, it’s likely impacting other small things as well, I just haven’t noticed it yet. I’m not sure obsessive thoughts are ever really a good thing, but maybe that’s another reason I don’t want to work 24/7 anymore.

  • 363days
    363days Posts: 579 Member
    https://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/comment/48617489#Comment_48617489

    Thanks for your response. Just when you said the words "mental break" I felt relief in my body. I can totally understand this method of using the product. This may sound crazy, but I was on ADD medication for a short time and quit because I didn't like the way I felt, however, it was helpful in showing me a path to get that calmness in my brain without using the meds.

  • Letsgetfit_83
    Letsgetfit_83 Posts: 2 Member

    I also have felt a curb in alcohol cravings, which is a welcome side affect. I don't find thick textures appealing, like a red wine, beer, even protein shakes and coffee w/lite cream. I tend to water down most of what I drink. As far as eating, it takes me at least an hour to two hours (when at work) to finish my small breakfast each morning. I have been taking the .25 or .50 doses, depending on my life schedule. I've lost 30 pounds since December and have leveled off, which is frustrating. Now looking for something to jolt my body back into losing weight. Any ideas?

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