Could a natural Fat-Like molecule curb alcohol cravings in young adults?
NCT ID NCT07503782
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 3 times
Summary
This study tests whether a natural molecule called oleoylethanolamide (OEA) can reduce inflammation, improve thinking, and lower alcohol use in young adults aged 18–25 with alcohol use disorder. Participants will take OEA or a placebo daily for 6 weeks and provide blood, saliva, and urine samples. The goal is to see if OEA offers a new way to help manage alcohol problems.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- oleoylethanolamide (OEA), a natural fat-like molecule
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could point toward a new, non-addictive treatment to help young adults reduce alcohol use by targeting inflammation and brain function.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage pilot trial with only 42 participants. It may not show clear benefits, and results may not apply to older adults or more severe cases.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Phase 2
Tests whether the treatment actually works, and watches for side effects, in a larger group.
- Participants
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About 42 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Expected to start
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Nov 2026
An estimate. Start dates often move.
- Expected to finish
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Jun 2031
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 to 25 years
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 to 25. Call study team for additional screening and information.
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Get notified about this study
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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.
How to take part
Only the study team decides who joins. These are the ways to reach them.
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The places running it
1 site. The list below names each one and where it is.
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The official record
ClinicalTrials.gov lists the study team's own contact details, including names and phone numbers. We don't republish those.
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A doctor treating you
A doctor who knows your case can contact a study site on your behalf, and can tell you whether this study is worth pursuing at all.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, 29425, United States
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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