Can a breathalyzer app curb binge drinking? small study tests new approach

NCT ID NCT06124898

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

Summary

This study tested a combination of a smartphone breathalyzer, a blood alcohol estimator app, and a brief counseling session to help young adults ages 18-25 drink more moderately. Twenty-four participants used the tools for two weeks while drinking. The goal was to see if the technology and coaching were easy to use and acceptable, not to prove they reduce drinking long-term.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Smartphone breathalyzer, BAC estimator app, self-texting procedure, and brief motivational interview

What this could lead to

If successful, this approach could provide a practical tool to help young adults reduce heavy drinking and related harms.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage study with only 24 participants and no control group, so results may not apply broadly. The intervention relies on voluntary use while drinking, which may be inconsistent.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ALCOHOL DRINKING 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 Drinking Behavior

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • EDGE Lab

    Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States