Smartphone breathalyzer and cash rewards aim to curb heavy drinking in veterans

NCT ID NCT03987581

Completed Disease control Sponsor: Duke University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jul 02, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether adding a smartphone-based incentive program to standard counseling helps veterans with alcohol use disorder reduce heavy drinking. Participants use a mobile app to submit breath alcohol readings and earn rewards for abstinence. The trial compares this combined approach to counseling alone and also examines the cost-effectiveness of the program.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: cognitive behavioral therapy and mobile contingency management (incentives for abstinence)
What this could lead to: If effective, this approach could provide a scalable, cost-effective way to help veterans reduce heavy drinking and improve health outcomes.
What could go wrong: The trial is relatively small (151 participants) and focuses on veterans, so results may not apply to other groups. The mobile app and incentive system may not work for everyone.

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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 DRINKING VETERANS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Duke University Medical Center

Durham, North Carolina, 27706, United States

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