Novel treatment for alcohol use disorder in veterans
Enhancing Treatment Outcomes Among Veterans With Alcohol Use Disorder: Clinical and Neural Markers of Adjunctive Approach-avoidance Training
This study is testing a new computer-based training to help veterans with alcohol use disorder drink less and improve their recovery while they also receive standard care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 176 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (San Diego, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT05372029 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate a new treatment approach for veterans with alcohol use disorder (AUD) by utilizing a computer-delivered Approach Avoidance Training (AAT) to help reduce hazardous drinking and improve recovery outcomes. The intervention focuses on changing implicit tendencies to approach alcohol-related cues, which can hinder recovery. Participants will receive AAT in conjunction with standard VA care, and the study will assess clinical, cognitive, and neural effects of this innovative treatment. The goal is to enhance veterans' engagement in their lives and communities by addressing the high relapse rates associated with AUD.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans with a primary diagnosis of alcohol use disorder who have not been abstinent for more than 90 days.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of severe mental health disorders, neurological conditions, or those currently undergoing other treatments outside of standard care may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve recovery outcomes for veterans struggling with alcohol use disorder.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using similar approaches to address alcohol use disorder, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * fluent in English * primary diagnosis of AUD with no more than 90 days abstinence from alcohol * 4-week stability if taking psychotropic medications Exclusion Criteria: * lifetime history of psychotic or bipolar disorder * neurodegenerative or neurodevelopmental disorders * history of moderate or severe traumatic brain injury or other known neurological condition * sensory deficits that would preclude completing tasks * suicidal or homicidal ideation within the past month necessitating urgent higher level care * concurrent individual psychotherapy or other treatment outside of standard DDRP programming * conditions unsafe for completing MRI scanning for those completing the scanning component only (e.g., metal in body)
Where this trial is running
San Diego, California
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA — San Diego, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jessica A Bomyea, PhD — VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA
- Study coordinator: Jessica A Bomyea, PhD
- Email: jessica.bomyea@va.gov
- Phone: (858) 642-3720
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.