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Brain scans reveal how alcohol may inflame the mind

NCT ID NCT02233868

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study used brain scans to see if heavy drinking causes inflammation in the brain and how that affects memory and thinking. 74 adults aged 30-75, including heavy drinkers and healthy volunteers, had PET and MRI scans along with thinking tests. The goal was to measure brain inflammation and see if it gets better after stopping alcohol for a few weeks.

What this could mean

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

What this could lead to
If it works, this could help explain how alcohol damages the brain and point toward new treatments for alcohol use disorder.
What could go wrong
This is an early, small study that only looks at brain scans, not a treatment. It may not find clear links or lead to any new therapies.

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 Inflammation

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER (AUD)

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

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