AI therapist for heavy drinkers? new trial tests chatbot in the ER
NCT ID NCT07661563
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.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Stanford University Medical Center
Palo Alto, California, 94304, United States