Sex-dependent divergence in the effects of GLP-1 agonist exendin-4 on alcohol reinforcement and reinstatement in C57BL/6J mice.

In male mice, exendin-4 appeared more effective at suppressing alcohol seeking in the absence of alcohol relative to alcohol self-administration, consistent with modulation of alcohol reward or inhibitory control, rather than satiety or aversive effects of alcohol. We saw marked sex differences with less effect of exendin-4 in female mice, and it will be important to include both sexes in further investigations into GLP-1 receptor agonists.