Reducing alcohol cravings through subconscious memory techniques

Effects of Subconscious Memory Extinction in Patients With Alcohol Dependence and Its Mechanism

NA · Shenzhen Kangning Hospital · NCT05942521

This study is testing a new therapy that uses subconscious memory techniques to help people who are dependent on alcohol reduce their cravings and avoid relapse.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorShenzhen Kangning Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Shenzhen, Guangdong)
Trial IDNCT05942521 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of subconscious memory extinction therapy on alcohol-dependent patients to reduce cravings and prevent relapse. Participants will undergo a screening process to determine eligibility and will be randomized into different intervention groups, including very brief extinction and clearly visible extinction. The study will monitor psychological cravings and physiological responses such as heart rate and skin conductance during the interventions. The primary goals are to assess the effectiveness of the therapy in reducing cravings and to understand the underlying mechanisms involved.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are alcohol-dependent individuals aged 18-60 who have completed detoxification treatment.

Not a fit: Patients currently experiencing acute alcohol withdrawal or those with other substance dependencies may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce cravings and relapse rates in individuals with alcohol dependence.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar studies exploring subconscious interventions for addiction have shown promising results, suggesting potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adopt DSM-IV alcohol dependence diagnostic criteria;
2. Complete detoxification treatment without obvious withdrawal symptoms;
3. Informed consent, voluntary participation.

Exclusion criteria:

1. Acute alcohol dependence withdrawal period;
2. Patients who meet the DSM-Ⅳ diagnosis of psychoactive substances or non-psychoactive substances other than alcohol (except nicotine);
3. Previous acceptance experienced similar exposure therapy;

Where this trial is running

Shenzhen, Guangdong

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Alcohol Use Disorder, Alcohol, Craving, Extinction training, Subconscious

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.