Could a common heart pill curb alcohol cravings?
NCT ID NCT05807139
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This early-phase study tests whether spironolactone, a drug currently used for high blood pressure and heart failure, can be safely used in people with alcohol use disorder. Twenty participants will each stay at a clinic four times, taking either the drug or a placebo for five days, then drinking alcohol in a controlled setting. Researchers will measure how the body processes the drug and alcohol, and check for side effects.
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 early study shows that spironolactone is safe and reduces alcohol craving or consumption, it could point toward a new treatment option for alcohol use disorder.
What could go wrong
This is a very small Phase 1b safety and dosing study with only 20 participants. It is not designed to prove effectiveness, and the drug may not reduce drinking in real-world settings. Side effects like high potassium or kidney issues are possible.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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National Institute on Drug Abuse
RECRUITINGBaltimore, Maryland, 21224, United States
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••