Could a postpartum depression drug curb alcohol cravings in PTSD?

NCT ID NCT05223829

Ongoing Disease control Sponsor: Yale University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This early study tests whether brexanolone, a drug already approved for postpartum depression, can safely reduce stress-induced alcohol use in 25 adults with both PTSD and alcohol use disorder. Participants receive a continuous 20-hour IV infusion under medical supervision. The main goal is to check safety and feasibility, not yet to prove effectiveness.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: brexanolone (Zulresso)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for people with both PTSD and alcohol use disorder.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early-phase safety study with only 25 participants, so results may not apply widely. The drug is given as a 20-hour IV infusion under medical observation, which limits convenience.

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 post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER PTSD

Contacts and locations

Locations

Yale School of Medicine

New Haven, Connecticut, 06519, United States

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