AI therapist for heavy drinkers? new trial tests chatbot in the ER

NCT ID NCT07661563

Not yet recruiting Disease control Sponsor: Stanford University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial tests whether an AI chatbot called MICA, combined with weekly text reminders, can help emergency department patients reduce risky alcohol use. About 750 adults who report heavy drinking will be randomly assigned to use MICA or receive usual care. The study tracks how much they drink over time to see if the digital approach works.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: AI chatbot (MICA) and weekly SMS check-ins
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a scalable, low-cost digital tool to help people cut back on risky drinking without needing a therapist.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage trial with no phase, so results are uncertain. The AI may not engage users effectively, and self-reported drinking data can be unreliable.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

alcohol abuse Emergencies

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ALCOHOL MISUSE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Stanford University Medical Center

Palo Alto, California, 94304, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.