Virtual reality with alcohol smells could unlock craving triggers

NCT ID NCT07667790

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether adding alcohol-related smells to virtual reality scenes makes people with alcohol use disorder feel stronger cravings. Sixty participants will experience different combinations of visual scenes (neutral or alcohol-related) and smells (none or alcohol). Researchers will measure self-reported cravings and heart rate changes to understand how multiple senses contribute to craving.

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 could help develop better virtual reality therapies for alcohol relapse prevention by understanding how smell affects craving.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study (60 participants) that only measures immediate reactions, not long-term outcomes. Results may not apply to real-world settings.

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.

alcohol abuse alcohol dependence Anosmia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Psychiatric University Hospital Charité at St. Hedwig Hospital, Berlin, Berlin 10115

    Berlin, State of Berlin, 10115, Germany