Smartphone app training to strengthen inhibition around alcohol or cocaine in teens and young adults

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This randomized pilot delivers substance-specific inhibition training via a smartphone app as an add-on to standard outpatient or online treatment for adolescents and young adults with alcohol or cocaine use disorder. Eligible participants (age 14–35) in one of seven specialized treatment settings are randomized to the substance-specific training or a control training and complete sessions through the app. The primary aim is to determine feasibility and acceptability, with preliminary behavioral outcomes measured and an optional EEG substudy for neural effects. The intervention uses cognitive bias modification to strengthen inhibition in the presence of substance-related cues and aims to increase accessibility by remote delivery.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 14 - 35 years
* Alcohol use disorder identification test (AUDIT) ≥ 7 or Drug Use Identification Test (DUDIT) ≥ 8
* Currently undergoing outpatient treatment or online counselling in one of 7 specialized treatment settings
* Sufficient German language skills
* Informed Consent as documented by signature
* Owner of a smartphone with internet access

Exclusion Criteria:

* Other severe substance use (except nicotine and cannabis) determined by the cut-off value ≥ 25 in the drug use disorder identification test (DUDIT)
* Current medical conditions excluding participation
* Inability to read and understand the participant's information
* Enrolment of the investigator, his/her family members, employees, and other dependent persons

Additional exclusion criteria for Electroencephalography (EEG)-substudy:

* Current medication affecting EEG (e.g., benzodiazepines)
* Other severe substance use determined by the cut-off value ≥ 25 in the DUDIT (except nicotine)
* History of epilepsy
* Cochlea implant

Where it's running

• University of Bern
  Bern, Switzerland Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Maria Stein, PD Dr. — University of Bern
• Study coordinator: Maria Stein, PD Dr.
• Email: maria.stein@unibe.ch
• Phone: +41 31 684 54 12

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.