Could a blood pressure drug help treat PTSD and alcohol addiction together?

NCT ID NCT05692271

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

Summary

This study tests whether adding the blood pressure medication propranolol to cognitive processing therapy (a type of talk therapy) helps people with both post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and alcohol use disorder. About 48 adults aged 18 to 70 with both conditions will receive either propranolol or a placebo twice daily for 12 weeks, along with weekly therapy sessions. The goal is to see if the combination is well-tolerated and reduces PTSD symptoms and heavy drinking.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Propranolol

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for people struggling with both PTSD and alcohol use disorder.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-phase proof-of-concept trial, so results may not apply broadly. Propranolol can cause side effects like low blood pressure and fatigue.

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 post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • CAMH

    Toronto, Ontario, Canada