Using brain stimulation and cognitive training to help veterans with alcohol use disorder
Official title: Effects of tDCS Paired with Cognitive Training on Brain Networks associated with Alcohol Use Disorder in Veterans
Funded at Minneapolis VA Medical Center · NIH-11115538 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special type of brain stimulation, combined with brain training exercises, can help veterans who are dealing with alcohol use problems by improving their thinking skills and reducing the chances of relapse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Minneapolis VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2020 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01CX001995-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11115538 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have a history of alcohol use disorder and are seeking treatment to achieve and maintain abstinence.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not veterans or those who do not have a history of alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with cognitive training can improve brain function and reduce relapse rates in veterans struggling with alcohol use disorder. The approach focuses on enhancing cognitive abilities and strengthening the neural networks that are often impaired due to chronic alcohol use. By targeting specific brain circuits associated with addiction, the study aims to develop more effective treatment strategies for veterans. Participants will engage in cognitive training exercises while receiving brain stimulation to potentially improve their recovery outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options that help veterans maintain long-term sobriety and enhance their cognitive functioning.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using cognitive training and brain stimulation for addiction treatment, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Minneapolis VA Medical Center
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Kelvin O. — Minneapolis VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Lim, Kelvin O.
Related research
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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.