Gut bacteria may hold key to alcohol addiction treatment

NCT ID NCT02911077

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Institutes of Health Clinical Center (CC) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jul 17, 2026 · Updated 7 times

Summary

This study looked at 23 adults going through alcohol detox to see how the bacteria in their mouth and gut change over time. Researchers collected stool and mouth samples along with diet and mood questionnaires. The goal was to better understand the link between gut bacteria, anxiety, and depression in alcohol dependence.

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 point toward new ways to treat alcohol dependence by targeting gut bacteria.
What could go wrong: This is a small, observational study with only 23 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. It does not test any treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

alcohol abuse alcohol dependence alcohol-related disorders Alcoholic Intoxication

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

National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

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