How alcohol misuse affects cognitive and respiratory health in COVID-19 patients

Impact of Alcohol Misuse on Cognitive and Respiratory Outcomes in COVID-19-associated Acute Respiratory Failure

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10671588

This study is looking at how drinking too much alcohol might affect people with severe COVID-19 breathing problems, especially those on breathing machines, to see if it makes their thinking and breathing worse, and to find ways to help them recover better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10671588 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of alcohol misuse on patients suffering from COVID-19-related acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). It aims to understand how alcohol consumption may worsen cognitive and respiratory outcomes in these patients, particularly those requiring mechanical ventilation. The study will analyze the relationship between alcohol misuse and the development of delirium, which is common in ICU patients and can lead to long-term cognitive impairment. By identifying these connections, the research seeks to highlight modifiable factors that could improve recovery outcomes for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have experienced COVID-19-related ARDS and have a history of alcohol misuse.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of alcohol misuse or who have not been diagnosed with COVID-19-related ARDS may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for COVID-19 patients with a history of alcohol misuse, enhancing their recovery and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a link between alcohol misuse and worsened outcomes in ARDS, suggesting that this study builds on established findings rather than exploring an entirely novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.