Alcohol Use And PTSD Research Study
Researchers at UTHealth Houston and UCLA are conducting a study on the effectiveness of a medication for individuals with alcohol use disorder (AUD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) who experience sleep disturbances.
Fast Facts
Currently Experiencing PTSD Symptoms & Wanting to Reduce or Quit Drinking Alcohol
Currently Experiencing Sleep Problems
Compensation Provided
Conducted at Houston Medical Center in Houston, TX and UCLA in Los Angeles, CA
Study Background
This study aims to evaluate whether suvorexant, a medication approved by the FDA for treating insomnia, can also help reduce symptoms of PTSD and alcohol use disorder. Participants will take the study medication, attend in-person and virtual study visits, and complete assessments to measure changes in sleep quality and alcohol-related behaviors.
Alcohol use disorder and PTSD frequently co-occur, with individuals often using alcohol as a way to manage distressing symptoms of PTSD, such as nightmares, hyperarousal, and anxiety. However, alcohol can disrupt sleep patterns and worsen PTSD symptoms over time, creating a cycle that is difficult to break. Effective treatments that address both conditions simultaneously are limited, highlighting the need for novel therapeutic approaches.
The medication has been shown to improve sleep by helping individuals fall and stay asleep. Given the strong connection between poor sleep, PTSD symptoms, and alcohol use, researchers believe that improving sleep quality may lead to reductions in alcohol consumption and PTSD-related distress. This study will explore whether a medication can provide these benefits, offering a potential new treatment option for those struggling with AUD and PTSD.
Study Background
This study aims to evaluate whether suvorexant, a medication approved by the FDA for treating insomnia, can also help reduce symptoms of PTSD and alcohol use disorder. Participants will take the study medication, attend in-person and virtual study visits, and complete assessments to measure changes in sleep quality and alcohol-related behaviors.
Additional Information
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Currently drink alcohol regularly
- Currently experiencing sleep problems
- Currently experiencing PTSD symptoms
- Able to abstain from other sleep medications for 3 weeks
- Ages 21-65
- Not currently pregnant or nursing and willing to use a reliable method of birth control
If you participate in this study, you will first complete a phone screening to determine if you meet the initial eligibility criteria. If eligible, you will be scheduled for an in-person screening visit, where you will complete questionnaires, participate in interviews, and undergo a physical exam, including a blood draw and EKG to ensure it is safe for you to participate.
If you are eligible to continue, you will take part in a 22-day study that includes:
- Three weekly in-person clinic visits where you will receive the study medication, provide breath, urine, and blood samples, complete alcohol cue assessments, and answer study-related questionnaires.
- Virtual check-ins on non-clinic days, where you will record videos of yourself taking the study medication, complete a daily questionnaire, and wear a watch to track your sleep habits.
Participants will be compensated up to $595 for completing all study activities. Additionally, parking validation or bus passes will be provided to assist with transportation.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.