Remote Alcohol Monitoring to Facilitate Abstinence From Alcohol: Exp 1

Remote Alcohol Monitoring to Facilitate Abstinence Reinforcement With an Underserved Population

Directly reinforcing abstinence from alcohol with monetary incentives is an effective treatment for alcohol dependence, but barriers in obtaining frequent, verified biochemical measures of abstinence limit the dissemination of this treatment approach. The goal of this study is to use technological advancements to remotely, accurately, and securely monitor alcohol use with a newly developed smartphone app and breathalyzer. This treatment approach has the potential to facilitate the dissemination of an effective, evidence-based treatment for alcohol dependence to a broader population whose treatment needs are not currently being adequately met.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM)-5 criteria for alcohol use disorder
• Average 3 or more heavy drinking days (≥5 drinks in one occasion for men, ≥4 for women) per week for the past month on the Timeline Follow-back.
• Must endorse alcohol as their primary drug of use.
• Express a desire to abstain from drinking.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Are currently enrolled in an alcohol treatment program (not including attendance at Alcoholics Anonymous or similar community support meetings).
• Score 23 or greater on the Alcohol Withdrawal Symptom Checklist, a score indicating that medication would be likely required to manage alcohol detoxification.
• Pregnant women, lactating women, or women who are planning to become pregnant in the next 15 months.