Could a heart drug curb alcohol cravings in HIV patients?

NCT ID NCT06004830

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This small pilot study tested whether giving spironolactone, a drug normally used for heart conditions, could help people with HIV reduce their alcohol use. Twenty-one participants received the drug along with support from a pharmacist and psychiatrist. The study focused on whether this approach was practical and safe, and looked for early signs it might cut down drinking.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

spironolactone

What this could lead to

If this works, it could point toward a new way to help people with HIV reduce their drinking.

What could go wrong

This is a very small pilot study with only 21 people, no comparison group, and it's testing a drug not approved for this use. Results may not apply broadly.

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

AIDS alcohol abuse HIV infectious disease

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Atlanta VA Medical Center

    Decatur, Georgia, 30033, United States