Zapping the brain to fight alcohol relapse in veterans

NCT ID NCT04574167

Completed Disease control Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

ALCOHOL USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Minneapolis VA Health Care System, Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis, Minnesota, 55417-2309, United States

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