Oar Health has announced that it has surpassed 50,000 patients served, a milestone that highlights the growing demand for virtual, medication-assisted alcohol use disorder (AUD) treatment.
The New York-based company reported 108% year-over-year growth and noted its ongoing month-to-month profitability, which is a rare position for digital health platforms.
AUD in Numbers and Stigma as a Barrier
AUD is a chronic condition that affects how the brain regulates alcohol use, leading to impaired control and harmful drinking patterns.
In the US, about 28 million people aged 12 and older are living with AUD, yet fewer than 3% receive medication to help them reduce or quit drinking.
Stigma plays a key role in this issue. Many patients feel shame, fear judgment or try to handle their situation alone. Others avoid talking to healthcare providers because they worry about labels or social consequences.
Misconceptions in clinical settings, such as believing AUD is a choice instead of a medical condition influenced by genetics and environment, reinforce stigma and discourage treatment.
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How Oar Health Brings Treatment Online
Oar Health offers a virtual program that connects people with treatment from the comfort of their own home.
The company provides access to naltrexone, an FDA-approved daily pill that reduces cravings by altering the brain’s response to alcohol. Patients start with an online assessment and receive a personalized treatment plan. If eligible, they have medication delivered directly to their homes.
This model lessens stigma by offering private, discreet care without the need for in-person visits or pharmacy lines, making it easier for people to seek help.
According to Oar Health’s internal data, 73% of members who take their medication as directed reported drinking less within two weeks. Patients also experienced better sleep (79%), improved work performance (69%) and weight loss (46%). The company currently supports nearly 12,000 active members and expects a 93% increase in revenue by 2025.
Oar’s Next Steps and Industry Developments
The AUD treatment landscape is changing. Only three FDA-approved drugs are currently available — naltrexone, disulfiram and acamprosate — but they are still underused.
New therapies are also in development. Altimmune’s pemvidutide, which recently received Fast Track designation from the FDA, is in a Phase II trial for AUD and is being studied for its potential benefits in patients with alcohol-associated liver disease and metabolic comorbidities.
Adial Pharmaceuticals is preparing for Phase III development of AD04, a genetically targeted therapy that has shown potential to reduce drinking in heavy drinking patients.
These investigational drugs highlight the renewed focus on expanding pharmacological options for AUD.
Leadership at Oar Health described the company’s milestone as evidence that accessible, evidence-based treatment can change how people approach alcohol reduction or recovery.
Market forecasts indicate this positive trend will continue. The global market for AUD treatment is predicted to grow from $0.79 billion in 2025 to $1.4 billion in 2035.
Digital health platforms, medication-assisted care and relapse-prevention technologies are driving this growth. While challenges persist, continued investment in affordable therapies, AI-enabled support and virtual platforms is expected to improve access to treatment.
Oar Health combines an established FDA-approved therapy with a stigma-reducing digital model. Looking forward, Oar Health plans to offer expert knowledge and personalized guidance to give members more tools for achieving their treatment goals.
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