Remote treatment for reducing alcohol consumption
Automated Reinforcement Management Systems, Phase II
This study is testing a smartphone app that rewards adults trying to cut back on drinking by giving them incentives for submitting breath samples that show low alcohol levels.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 125 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Washington State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Spokane, Washington) |
| Trial ID | NCT06456905 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
The Automated Reinforcement Management Systems Phase II (ARMS II) is a randomized controlled trial aimed at evaluating the effectiveness of Contingency Management (CM) for adults seeking to reduce their alcohol consumption. Participants will use a smartphone application connected to a Bluetooth breathalyzer to submit breath samples and earn rewards based on their alcohol levels. The study involves two groups: one receiving rewards for negative breath samples and the other for timely submissions regardless of results. Participants will also engage in daily surveys and monthly clinic visits for support and reinforcement of positive behaviors.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-70 who have a history of heavy drinking and are motivated to reduce their alcohol intake.
Not a fit: Patients with severe alcohol use disorder or those at risk of dangerous withdrawal symptoms may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly help individuals reduce their alcohol consumption and improve their overall health.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using Contingency Management have shown promising results in reducing alcohol consumption, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-70 years * Have consumed 3 or more drinks in once occasion 4 or more times in the previous 30 days 3 * Have the ability to read and speak English * Have the ability to provide written informed consent * Have a breath alcohol value of 0.00 during informed consent * Owns a smartphone with an active service provider that is compatible with the study application. Exclusion Criteria: * Severe alcohol use disorder that our medical staff deems too risky for safe participation; * Significant risk of dangerous alcohol withdrawal, defined as history of seizure due to alcohol withdrawal in the last 12 months and/or expression of concern by the participant about dangerous withdrawal * Anyone aged 71 or older. * Anyone with a suicide attempt in the last 2 years. * Individuals who express concern regarding dangerous withdrawal or who exhibit dangerous withdrawal symptoms. * Individuals who do not test BrAC = 0.00 on the breathalyzer during the baseline visit. * Any other condition that investigators determine a medical or psychiatric condition that would compromise safe study participation.
Where this trial is running
Spokane, Washington
- Washington State University — Spokane, Washington, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sterling M McPherson, PhD — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Abigail L Bowen, MS
- Email: abigail.bowen@wsu.edu
- Phone: (425) 736-1354
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.