Investigating how alcohol use affects cognitive function the next day in young adults

An Ecological Investigation of Acute Next-Day Effects of Alcohol Use on Daily Cognitive Functioning

NIH-funded research University of Oregon · NIH-11247411

This study is looking at how drinking alcohol affects thinking and memory in young adults, by tracking the experiences of 250 participants over three weeks to see how different drinking habits impact their focus and recall the next day, with the goal of helping those who might be more vulnerable to these effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oregon NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Eugene, United States)
Project IDNIH-11247411 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the immediate effects of alcohol consumption on cognitive functioning in young adults. By collecting detailed data over a 21-day period from 250 participants, the study aims to assess how different types of drinking episodes, such as binge or blackout drinking, impact concentration and memory the following day. The researchers will analyze both daily behaviors and individual differences to identify those most at risk for cognitive impairment due to alcohol use. This information could help inform targeted prevention and intervention strategies for young adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are young adults who consume alcohol, particularly those who engage in heavy or binge drinking.

Not a fit: Patients who do not consume alcohol or are outside the young adult age range may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cognitive decline associated with alcohol use in young adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that alcohol use can negatively impact cognitive function, suggesting that this study's approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Eugene, 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.