Ozempic could curb our shopping sprees. That doesn't mean we should go there

Here’s a summary of this article I contributed to. Read the full article on Salon.

Ozempic’s Multifaceted Benefits: While initially designed for diabetes management and weight loss, Ozempic may also curb compulsive habits like shopping, nail-biting, and gambling by dampening dopamine-driven cravings.

How It Works:

• Ozempic may reduce dopamine surges triggered by rewarding behaviors, lessening the “need” to indulge.

• This mechanism not only quiets food cravings but may also affect other impulsive behaviors.

Anecdotal Evidence:

• Patients report reductions in cravings for smoking, drug use, and compulsive shopping.

• Psychotherapist Rachel Goldberg, LMFT, PMH-C, notes that “rumination-related behaviors often take a back seat,” highlighting Ozempic’s broader impact on addictive tendencies.

Challenges Post-Treatment:

• Cravings often return when patients stop taking Ozempic.

• Lasting change requires addressing the root causes of compulsive behaviors, often through therapy.

Therapy and Long-Term Strategies:

• Medications like Ozempic can complement therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or addiction-specific counseling.

• Rachel Goldberg emphasizes that “without addressing deeper emotional drivers, compulsions may resurface in other forms.”

Final Takeaway:

While Ozempic may help curb compulsive habits, it’s not a standalone solution. Sustainable recovery involves a combination of pharmacological support and therapy to tackle the underlying issues driving these behaviors.