Using a smartphone app to help manage heavy drinking in veterans
Combining a Smartphone App with Medications to Manage Heavy Drinking
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA PUGET SOUND HEALTHCARE SYSTEM · NIH-11084300
This study is testing a smartphone app called Step Away that helps veterans manage their drinking while they use medication to support their recovery, making it easier for them to stick to their treatment and improve their health.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA PUGET SOUND HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11084300 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a smartphone application designed to support veterans in managing alcohol use disorder (AUD) alongside medication-assisted treatment. The app, called Step Away, provides personalized strategies for moderating or abstaining from drinking and includes features for self-monitoring alcohol consumption. By integrating psychosocial interventions with medication, the study aims to improve treatment adherence and outcomes for veterans who face barriers to traditional care. The approach is particularly relevant for those who prefer receiving care in a primary care setting.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans aged 21 and older who are experiencing alcohol use problems and are seeking treatment.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have access to a smartphone or prefer in-person treatment methods may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve access to effective treatment for veterans struggling with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that smartphone apps can effectively improve drinking-related outcomes, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- VA PUGET SOUND HEALTHCARE SYSTEM — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HAWKINS, ERIC — VA PUGET SOUND HEALTHCARE SYSTEM
- Study coordinator: HAWKINS, ERIC
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.