Could a sleep pill curb alcohol cravings? new trial investigates

NCT ID NCT07214207

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether suvorexant, a sleep medication, can help people with alcohol use disorder drink less and handle stress better. About 250 adults who want to cut back on alcohol will take either the drug or a placebo nightly for 8 weeks. Researchers will track drinking habits, cravings, and stress responses through lab visits and daily smartphone reports.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Suvorexant (Belsomra), a sleep medication

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new treatment option for alcohol use disorder that also helps with stress-related drinking.

What could go wrong

This is a mid-stage trial with 250 people, so results are not yet proven. The drug may not reduce drinking more than a placebo, and side effects like daytime sleepiness are possible.

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

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

  • Ohio State University

    RECRUITING

    Columbus, Ohio, 43210, United States

    Contact