A new study from the University of Virginia, published in Nature, examined GLP-1 medications in tablet form. The researchers wanted to understand how the drugs influence brain activity.
Previous research has mainly focused on injectable treatments such as semaglutide, which work by reducing hunger. The newer tablets are cheaper to produce and easier for patients to use, according to SciTechDaily.
The researchers studied medications including orforglipron and danuglipron, which are already being tested or used in treatment.
The brain’s reward system
In the study, researchers used mice whose brain receptors had been modified to more closely resemble those of humans.
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They observed activity in an area of the brain known as the central amygdala. This region is linked to reward, pleasure, and motivation.
According to the researchers, the medication affected not only hunger but also the part of the brain associated with cravings for food.
Could have broader implications
The study also showed that the medication reduced the release of dopamine during hedonic eating, eating for pleasure rather than because of hunger.
The researchers therefore believe the medication could potentially be used for more than weight loss. The next step is to investigate whether the drugs may also influence other forms of cravings and addiction.
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Sources: SciTechDaily and Nature.