Could an arthritis drug curb alcohol cravings?

NCT ID NCT07325266

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study is testing whether apremilast (Otezla), a drug currently used for psoriasis and arthritis, can reduce alcohol cravings in people with moderate to severe alcohol use disorder. Researchers will compare two different doses of the drug against a placebo in 100 adults who want to cut back or quit drinking. The main goal is to see if the drug lowers cravings after two weeks of daily use.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: apremilast (Otezla)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new medication to help people with alcohol use disorder reduce their drinking and cravings.
What could go wrong: This is a phase 2 trial with only 100 people, so results are still early. The drug may not work better than a placebo, and side effects are possible.

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

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALCOHOL MISUSE ALCOHOL USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California
RECRUITING

Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States
University of Colorado
RECRUITING

Aurora, Colorado, 80045, United States
University of Virginia
RECRUITING

Charlottesville, Virginia, 22911, United States

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