Using incentives to reduce alcohol and smoking in treatment-seeking individuals
Pharmaceutically-Enhanced Reinforcement for Reduced Alcohol and Smoking
This study is testing if a combination of rewards and a smoking cessation drug can help adults with alcohol use disorder cut down on drinking and smoking while they are getting treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 205 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Washington State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Spokane, Washington) |
| Trial ID | NCT05181891 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of contingency management, combined with varenicline, in reducing alcohol consumption and cigarette smoking among adults with alcohol use disorder who are seeking treatment. Participants will receive either the contingency management intervention or a non-contingent control, alongside manualized counseling through module videos. The study focuses on individuals who have initiated pharmacotherapy for smoking cessation and have a history of heavy drinking. The goal is to determine if these behavioral strategies can significantly improve treatment outcomes for co-addicted individuals.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a DSM-5 diagnosis of alcohol use disorder who are seeking treatment for both alcohol and smoking cessation.
Not a fit: Patients with a significant risk of dangerous alcohol withdrawal or those who do not meet the inclusion criteria may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective treatment options for individuals struggling with both alcohol and nicotine dependence.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown success with contingency management in treating substance use disorders, indicating that this approach is both tested and promising.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. 4 or more standard drinks on the same occasion for women (5 or more standard drinks on the same occasion for men) on at least 4 occasions in the prior 30 days 2. Seeking AUD treatment 3. Seeking smoking cessation treatment 4. Aged 18+ years 5. DSM-5 diagnosis of AUD 6. Currently smoking daily according to PhenX Smoking Status (100 or more lifetime cigarettes plus current daily smoking) 7. Ability to read and speak English 8. Ability to provide written informed consent 9. Breath alcohol of 0.00 during informed consent 10. Provision of at least 1 EtG-positive urine test at any time during the induction period and at least one COT-positive urine test at any time during the induction period; and 11. Attended at least 4 of 6 possible visits during the induction period. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Significant risk of dangerous alcohol withdrawal, defined as a history of alcohol detoxification or seizure in the last 12 months and expression of concern by the participant about dangerous withdrawal 2. Currently receiving any pharmacotherapy for alcohol 3. Currently receiving any pharmacotherapy for smoking 4. No suicide attempt in the last 20 years and 5. Any other medical (discernable by initial blood tests) or psychiatric condition that Drs. Layton or Rodin determine would compromise safe 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 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.