GLP-1s May Treat Addiction
GLP-1s like Ozempic could do more than just tip the scales, potentially serving as a treatment for addiction.
12Your Body on Tech
Physician Dhruv Khullar traces the path of GLP-1s from Gila monster saliva to potential addiction treatments that quiet brain cravings.
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Key takeaways
GLP-1s like Ozempic could do more than just tip the scales, potentially serving as a treatment for addiction.
12The 'moderation molecule' was discovered in Gila monster saliva before becoming a potential diabetes medication and addiction treatment.
2The most surprising effects of GLP-1s may not be in the gut, but in the brain, where they can quiet the relentless noise of craving.
23Ask GenPod next
“How do GLP-1s affect the brain's craving centers?”
“What is the history of GLP-1 discovery in Gila monster saliva?”
“How does Manoush Zomorodi connect health to the high-tech era?”
Background reading
Series Context
This episode is part of a seven-part series on TED Talks Daily exploring how to live a healthier life in the high-tech era, curated by guest host Manoush Zomorodi.
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What if GLP-1s like Ozempic could do more than just tip the scales?
Physician Dhruv Khullar traces the winding path of the "moderation molecule" — from a discovery in Gila monster saliva to a potential diabetes medication and addiction treatment — and how they could quiet the relentless noise of craving.
The most surprising effects of GLP-1s may not be in the gut, but in the brain.
And stick around after his talk for a deep dive conversation with our guest host for the week, author and podcaster Manoush Zomorodi, into the ideas he shared on stage and beyond.
This is episode five of a seven-part series airing this week on TED Talks Daily, where Manoush — and the seven speakers she curated for TED2026 — explore how you can live a healthier life in our high-tech era.
To hear more from Manoush, listen to TED Radio Hour wherever you get your podcasts. Check out her new book, Body Electric, to learn more about the hidden health costs of the digital age.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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