New computer program aims to curb dangerous drinking in chronic pain patients on opioids

NCT ID NCT04592978

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a brief, computer-based personalized feedback program for adults with chronic pain who drink heavily and take prescription opioids. The program was designed to educate participants about the risks of mixing alcohol and opioids and to motivate them to reduce drinking. Over 200 participants were randomly assigned to receive either the pain-alcohol feedback or a control feedback about exercise and nutrition. The study measured changes in knowledge, motivation, and actual drinking and co-use behaviors.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Personalized feedback intervention (behavioral)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a brief, scalable tool to help people with chronic pain drink less and avoid dangerous alcohol-opioid combinations.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage, proof-of-concept trial with 206 participants. The intervention is a single session of computer-based feedback, which may not be enough to change behavior long-term. Results may not apply to all populations.

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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

Locations

  • Syracuse University

    Syracuse, New York, 13210, United States

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