Using a virtual program to help adults with alcohol use disorder stay sober
Official title: Assessing the Clinical and Cost-Effectiveness of a Virtual PEth-based Contingency Management for Adults with AUD
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10929460 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a friendly online program that helps adults with alcohol use disorder stay sober by using blood tests to check their progress, and participants can earn rewards for submitting their samples over six months, making it easier and more comfortable to get support during their recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $691,670 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA031013-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929460 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing alcohol use disorder and are seeking support for sobriety.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not struggling with alcohol use disorder or those who are unable to participate in telehealth interventions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a telehealth-based program that uses a blood test to monitor alcohol use in adults with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Participants will receive rewards for submitting blood samples that confirm their sobriety over a 26-week period. The program aims to make treatment more accessible and less stigmatizing, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, by utilizing technology to support individuals in their recovery journey. By focusing on a longer intervention period, the study seeks to improve long-term outcomes for participants compared to traditional, shorter treatment models.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and accessible treatment option for adults struggling with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using telehealth and contingency management approaches for substance use disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcdonell, Michael G — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Mcdonell, Michael G
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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.