Current Medications and What Trials Build On

Several medications are already approved to help treat AUD, including:

• Naltrexone: Blocks some of alcohol’s rewarding effects and may reduce cravings
• Acamprosate: Helps maintain long-term abstinence by targeting brain changes linked to alcohol dependence. It’s used for those who have already stopped drinking at the time treatment begins.
• Disulfiram: Causes unpleasant reactions if you drink, which can support people who are highly motivated to stay abstinent. Its intention is to discourage drinking alcohol (and you must also be cautious of foods containing alcohol).

Clinical trials often build on these medicines by testing new doses, trying different combinations, seeing how the medications work for different people, and developing treatment schedules.

They may also explore which medications work best for people with certain drinking patterns or health conditions, such as if someone has diabetes or underlying neurological issues. Some studies also go on to evaluate off-label medications, like certain antidepressants or anti-seizure drugs, to see if they can help with issues like delirium tremens, a serious risk of alcohol cessation.

Alcohol Use Disorder Trials

AUD trials vary in intention and what they study, but most fall into a few categories.

• Some test a new medication against a placebo or standard care.
• Others examine how medication works when combined with counseling or digital support programs.
• Still others focus on therapy tools delivered by phone, apps, or text messages.

Some trials focus on specific demographics. It might study alcohol use disorder in older adults, women, or people who have both AUD and another mental health condition (a dual diagnosis).

As an important note, keep in mind that in most cases, everyone who participates in the study will receive at least some level of counseling or support, even if only one group gets the new treatment being tested.

Why You Might Consider an AUD Clinical Trial

You could choose to participate in a clinical trial for various reasons. You might be interested in trying a newer medication if other treatments have not helped enough. You may want a structured follow-up program, or you may feel motivated to contribute to better future treatments. In some areas of the country, research programs also offer access to care that might otherwise be hard to find.

A clinical trial is not your only path to recovery, but it can be a good option depending on your needs.

What To Expect During a Clinical Trial

Although every study is different, most of them include a screening visit to review your drinking history, health status, and past treatments, so it can be determined if this program is right for you. You may need to complete questionnaires, lab tests, speak with a physician, or have lab work done.

When you’re accepted to the trial, you’ll enter a treatment phase, and you may receive medication, either the real thing or a placebo. You may also get counseling to support your recovery.

Researchers may ask you to track your cravings, mood, diet, or drinks taken using paper forms or digital tools. And once treatment ends, the research team typically checks in through visits or calls to see whether any improvements you saw during the trial last over the long term.

Most trials use something called random assignment, meaning you could be placed into different treatment groups. You may or may not know which medication you received until the study is over.

Safety, Privacy, and Your Rights During a Clinical Trial

Legitimate clinical trials follow strict protocols to protect you. Before you join a trial, you should receive clear information about possible side effects, what happens if you want to stop participating, and how researchers are going to keep your personal information private (usually involving HIPAA laws and other regulations).

You should be given a direct contact number for questions or emergencies. And remember: you always have the right to leave a trial at any time without losing access to other medical care.

How AUD Trials Can Work With Other Support Systems

Clinical trials rarely replace all other sources of support, such as working with your primary care physician or taking medications. Many participants continue counseling or join mutual-help groups while working on improving their health, sleep, exercise habits, or stress management techniques. Your research team can explain what outside supports are allowed during the study.

FAQ: Questions To Ask Before Joining a Clinical Trial

1. What specific medications or programs are you testing?
2. Do you use evidence-backed services?
3. Will I also receive counseling or support groups during the trial?
4. How will you help me manage cravings or withdrawal safely?
5. What happens when the study ends? What treatment options will I have then?
6. Are there costs to me, or is compensation available?

Alcohol use disorder is treatable. Whether or not you choose to join a clinical trial, you deserve evidence-based care and nonjudgmental support.