Comparing spaced and massed alcohol avoidance training for alcohol use disorder

The Effectiveness of Spaced Versus Massed Alcohol Avoidance Training in Inpatient Alcohol Use Disorder Treatment: A Multisite Randomized Trial

Not applicable Interventional IrisZorg · NCT05631366

This study is testing whether spreading out alcohol avoidance training over four weeks works better than cramming it into one week for people with alcohol use disorder.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment234 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorIrisZorg Academic / other
Locations1 site (Arnhem, Gelderland)
Trial IDNCT05631366 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of spaced versus massed Alcohol Avoidance Training (AAT) sessions for individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD). Participants will be randomly assigned to either the spaced group, where AAT sessions are spread over four weeks, or the massed group, where sessions occur within one week following detoxification. Both groups will receive AAT in addition to routine clinical care in an inpatient setting. The study will assess changes in alcohol consumption and avoidance tendencies as a result of the different training schedules.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older with a primary diagnosis of alcohol use disorder who are proficient in Dutch.

Not a fit: Patients with severe current psychiatric symptoms that may jeopardize their safety or study adherence will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance treatment strategies for alcohol use disorder by identifying the most effective training schedule for reducing alcohol consumption.

How similar studies have performed: While spaced learning has shown promise in other fields, this specific approach to Alcohol Avoidance Training has not been extensively tested, making it a novel investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* A primary diagnosis of alcohol use disorder (meeting the DSM-5 criteria (American Psychiatric Association, 2013);
* Age of at least 18 years or older;
* Good Dutch language proficiency;
* Written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

Severe, current psychiatric symptoms (especially manic, psychotic, suicidal and aggressive symptoms) that may endanger participants or others and jeopardize study adherence (determined on a case-by-case basis. The staff member who will provide the AAT information, informed consent and instruction will always consult one of the principal investigators in that case).

Where this trial is running

Arnhem, Gelderland

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Alcohol Use Disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.