Using ketone supplements to help with alcohol withdrawal and brain health

Ketone supplementation as an intervention to alleviate alcohol withdrawal and improve brain energetics in Alcohol Use Disorder

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10989293

This study is looking at whether a special drink with ketones can help people going through alcohol withdrawal feel better by providing extra energy for their brains, and you might be able to join if you're experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-10989293 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of ketone supplementation on individuals experiencing alcohol withdrawal symptoms. It aims to understand how ketone bodies can serve as an alternative energy source for the brain, potentially alleviating symptoms like tremors and delirium. The study will evaluate a specific ketone supplement drink to see if it can reduce withdrawal severity without the need for a strict ketogenic diet. Participants will be monitored for changes in brain energetics and overall health during the intervention.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alcohol Use Disorder who are experiencing withdrawal symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing alcohol withdrawal or those without a diagnosis of Alcohol Use Disorder may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for individuals suffering from alcohol withdrawal and improve their brain health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that ketogenic diets can reduce withdrawal symptoms in alcohol-dependent individuals, suggesting that this approach may be promising.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, 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.