GLP-1s to Support Substance Use Health

  • Alcohol
  • Opioids
  • Treatment
  • Substance Use Disorders
Doctor seeing a patient

Read this evidence brief

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About this evidence brief

Reviews recent evidence exploring the use of GLP-1s (glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists) to support people living with substance use disorders, systemic barriers to their implementation, and regulation and policy considerations as research in this area continues to develop. This brief is part of a series we created to help people and communities understand complex responses to support substance use health.

Three key points you will find in the document:

  • An overview of the substance use health landscape in Canada
  • How GLP-1s work and emerging evidence around the medication in relation to treatment for substance use disorders
  • Regulation and policy considerations for using GLP-1s to treat substance use disorders

Related Authors

Sheena Taha, PhD

Associate Director, Quality and Accountability

Area of Expertise

  • Harm Reduction
  • Opioids
  • Treatment
Read more

Justine Renard, PhD

Senior Research and Policy Analyst

Area of Expertise

  • Cannabis
  • Vaping
Read more

Kim Corace, PhD, C.Psych.

Vice President, Innovation and Senior Scientist ​

Read more

Pam Kent, PhD

Director, Research and Emerging Trends

Area of Expertise

  • 2SLGBTQ+
  • Cannabis
  • Mental Health
  • Substance Use Costs
Read more

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