Scientists use brain scans to unlock secrets of alcohol cravings
NCT ID NCT04067765
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study used brain imaging (fMRI) to see how heavy drinkers' brains respond to pictures of alcohol versus non-alcoholic drinks. 72 non-treatment-seeking heavy drinkers made hypothetical decisions about buying alcohol at different prices while in the scanner. The goal was to understand how alcohol-related cues change the perceived value of drinking, which could inform future addiction treatments.
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 successful, this research could help develop better behavioral therapies for alcohol use disorder by understanding how the brain responds to alcohol cues.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed observational study with 72 participants, not a treatment trial. Results may not apply to all heavy drinkers or lead directly to new therapies.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton
Hamilton, Ontario, L8N3K7, Canada