Using virtual reality to reduce cravings in alcohol-dependent patients
Presence and Relapse Rates in Patients with Alcohol Use Disorder Using Virtual Reality
This study tests if using virtual reality to show alcohol-related scenes can help people who recently finished treatment for alcohol dependence feel less cravings and reduce their chances of relapse.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Charite University, Berlin, Germany Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Berlin) |
| Trial ID | NCT06333457 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates how the sense of presence during Virtual Reality Cue-Exposure Therapy (VR-CET) affects craving and relapse rates in patients with alcohol dependence. Participants, aged 18 to 65, who have recently completed inpatient withdrawal treatment, will experience virtual presentations of alcohol-related cues. The primary hypothesis is that a stronger sense of presence during these virtual experiences correlates with reduced cravings for alcohol. The study aims to gather insights into the effectiveness of VR-CET in managing alcohol cravings.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with a diagnosis of alcohol dependence who have completed inpatient withdrawal treatment within the last three months.
Not a fit: Patients with current alcohol intoxication, severe neuropsychiatric disorders, or those undergoing concurrent pharmacological treatment for alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce cravings and relapse rates in individuals recovering from alcohol dependence.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality in therapeutic settings is gaining traction, this specific application in alcohol dependence is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * age: 18-65 years * diagnosis of alcohol dependence according to ICD-10 (F10.2) * completed in-patient withdrawal treatment during the last 3 months * history of alcohol craving, confrmed via craving questionnaires * able to provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * substance dependence other than alcohol and nicotine * current alcohol intoxication (randomly tested via measurement of breath alcohol concentration) * unable to understand the study information, consent form or principles of the study * abstinence for less than 7 days or on-going consumption of alcohol * severe neuropsychiatric disorder, e.g., schizophrenia spectrum disorders, bipolar afective disorder or substantial cognitive impairment * somatic diseases for which VR is associated with risks, e.g. photosensitive epilepsy * acute suicidality or acute endangerment of others * concurrent pharmacological treatment targeting AUD (i.e. benzodiazepines) or craving (i.e. acamprosate, disulfram, naltrexone, nalmefene)
Where this trial is running
Berlin
- Psychiatric University Hospital Charité at St. Hedwig Hospital — Berlin, Germany (Recruiting)
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.