Combining a medication and cognitive training to help treat alcohol use disorder

The Combination of Donepezil and Cognitive Training for Treating Alcohol Use Disorder

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11127431

This study is looking at whether taking donepezil, a medication for Alzheimer's, along with brain training exercises can help people with alcohol use disorder think better and recover more effectively.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11127431 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of combining donepezil, a medication typically used for Alzheimer's disease, with cognitive training to improve outcomes for individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study aims to address the cognitive impairments that many patients with AUD experience, which can hinder their recovery. By enhancing cognitive function through this combination approach, the research seeks to improve self-regulation and learning during recovery from alcohol dependence. Participants will engage in cognitive remediation therapy alongside the medication to assess the potential benefits of this dual approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who also exhibit cognitive impairments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or significant cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment outcomes for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder by enhancing their cognitive abilities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown some success with cognitive remediation therapy in reducing alcohol cravings, but this combined approach with donepezil is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.