Cash rewards for sober breath tests show promise in cutting alcohol use

NCT ID NCT06456905

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Washington State University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 06, 2026 · Last updated Jul 07, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether giving people rewards for passing breathalyzer tests can help them reduce or stop drinking. Adults who want to quit or cut back on alcohol will use a smartphone app to submit breath samples at set times. Those who consistently show zero alcohol get increasing rewards, while a missed target resets the reward amount. The goal is to see if this simple incentive system boosts sober days.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Contingency Management (behavioral reward program)
What this could lead to: If effective, this reward-based approach could offer a simple, medication-free way to help people reduce or stop drinking.
What could go wrong: This is a mid-stage trial with 120 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The reward system may not work for all, and drinking habits could return after the study ends.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ALCOHOL USE DISORDER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

alcohol abuse Alcohol Drinking

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Show contact details

Locations

WSU APPL Research

Spokane, Washington, 99201, United States
Washington State University

Spokane, Washington, 99202, United States

More trials for these conditions

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