Could a nasal spray curb alcohol cravings?

NCT ID NCT05988632

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Brown University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-stage trial tests whether a single dose of insulin given as a nasal spray can reduce alcohol cravings and consumption in people with alcohol use disorder. Forty non-treatment-seeking volunteers will receive either insulin or a placebo and then be exposed to alcohol-related cues and an alcoholic drink. The study primarily checks for safety and side effects.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: intranasal insulin (Novolin R)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new, non-addictive treatment option for alcohol use disorder that reduces cravings and drinking.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small trial (40 people) testing only a single dose. It may not show any effect on drinking behavior, and the results may not apply to people seeking treatment.

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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 USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Brown University
RECRUITING

Providence, Rhode Island, 02903, United States

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