Reducing alcohol cravings in people with alcohol dependence
Reducing alcohol-seeking behavior in a rat model of alcohol dependence
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN · NIH-11098466
This research explores a new way to help people with alcohol dependence reduce their cravings and prevent relapse by modifying a common therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (AUSTIN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11098466 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Excessive alcohol use is often triggered by environmental cues, like seeing a bar or a drink, which can lead to strong cravings and relapse. Current treatments, such as cue-exposure therapy, try to reduce these cravings by repeatedly showing alcohol-related cues without offering alcohol. However, these improvements often don't last. Our team is exploring a modified approach called "retrieval+extinction," which involves a brief reminder of the cue before the therapy, to see if it can make the benefits of cue-exposure therapy more lasting and prevent the return of alcohol-seeking behaviors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is foundational, but future human studies would ideally involve individuals struggling with alcohol dependence who experience strong cravings triggered by environmental cues.
Not a fit: Patients whose alcohol use disorder is not primarily driven by environmental cues or who do not experience significant cravings may not directly benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve existing therapies for alcohol use disorder, making it easier for patients to maintain sobriety and prevent relapse.
How similar studies have performed: Our previous work has shown promising results with this modified approach in animal models, suggesting it could be a valuable improvement to current therapies.
Where this research is happening
AUSTIN, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN — AUSTIN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LEE, HONGJOO JOANNE — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN
- Study coordinator: LEE, HONGJOO JOANNE
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.