Improving smartphone apps to help people with alcohol use disorder stay engaged in their treatment

Optimizing Smart Digital Therapeutic Message Components for Engagement and Clinical Outcomes for Alcohol Use Disorder

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10940692

This study is working on improving an app for people dealing with alcohol use issues by using smart technology to predict when someone might be at risk of relapsing, so the app can give personalized support and help them stay on track with their recovery.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10940692 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on enhancing digital therapeutic apps designed for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder (AUD). By integrating machine learning models that predict potential relapses, the project aims to personalize feedback and support for users, helping them stay engaged with their treatment. The approach leverages personal sensing technology to tailor interventions based on individual risk factors, making the app more effective in preventing relapse. The goal is to create a smarter version of an existing digital therapeutic that can better meet the needs of users.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are currently experiencing alcohol use disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who are not struggling with alcohol use disorder or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective digital tools that help individuals manage their alcohol use disorder and reduce the risk of relapse.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using digital therapeutics for alcohol use disorder, but this approach of integrating machine learning for personalized feedback is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.