Researchers are studying whether OTEZLA® (apremilast), compared to a placebo (an inactive substance that looks like the study medication), can help reduce alcohol cravings and support people who want to drink less or stop drinking. While OTEZLA® is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat certain other medical conditions, it is considered investigational for this research because it has not been approved for this purpose.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Are 21 years of age or older
• Drink alcohol regularly (several days each week)
• Want to reduce or stop drinking alcohol
• Are generally healthy without serious chronic medical conditions
• Are not currently receiving treatment for alcohol-related problems

If you are interested, you will first complete a phone screening to see if you may qualify. If you appear eligible, you will be invited to the UCLA Westwood campus for additional screening and study visits.

During the study, you will:

• Complete questionnaires and interviews about your health and drinking habits.
• Receive either the study medication (OTEZLA®) or a placebo. The assignment is random, like flipping a coin.
• Take the study medication at home twice each day for 6 weeks.
• Attend approximately 7 in-person visits at the UCLA Westwood campus.
• Complete a follow-up phone call after finishing the study.

Researchers will monitor your health and progress throughout the study.

Overall Duration

The study lasts about 10 weeks. This includes a phone screening, approximately 7 in-person study visits, 6 weeks of taking the study medication at home, and one follow-up phone call at the end of the study.

Participants may receive up to $590 for completing eligible study activities.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.