Zapping the brain to fight alcohol relapse in veterans
NCT ID NCT04574167
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tested whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS, combined with cognitive training, could improve thinking skills and reduce relapse in veterans with alcohol use disorder. 45 veterans received either real or sham tDCS during cognitive exercises. The goal was to see if the stimulation strengthened brain networks linked to self-control and decision-making.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to boost cognitive training and help veterans with alcohol use disorder stay sober longer.
What could go wrong
This was a small, early-stage study (45 people) looking at brain changes and thinking skills, not a proven treatment. Results may not apply to all veterans or lead to a reliable therapy.
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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Locations
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Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN
Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55417-2309, United States