Scientists probe the Brain's motivation for alcohol

NCT ID NCT06494891

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study aims to understand the different reasons people with alcohol use disorder are motivated to drink. Researchers will give participants IV alcohol and ask them to press a button for more doses, while measuring mood, cravings, and thinking skills. The goal is to link these factors to drinking behavior, which could eventually help tailor treatments.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Intravenous alcohol (6% ethanol in saline)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help identify different reasons people drink, leading to more personalized treatments for alcohol use disorder.
What could go wrong: This is an early-phase study focused on understanding, not treatment. Results may not directly lead to new therapies, and the IV alcohol procedure carries risks like intoxication.

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

University of California, Los Angeles
RECRUITING

Los Angeles, California, 90095, United States

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