Neural bases of alcohol-related decision-making

Study on How the Brain Decides About Drinking Alcohol

B
Brandon Oberlin

Primary Investigator

Enrolling By Invitation
21 years - 45 years
All
Phase N/A
1 Location

Brief description of study

The purpose of this study is to help us better understand addiction and the risk for developing alcoholism and to help us understand how the brain makes choices about drinking alcohol.
 
THIS STUDY IS ENROLLING BY INVITATION ONLY 

Detailed description of study

The entire study will take 9 hours to complete, and will take place at Goodman Hall or the Clinical Research Center (5th floor of University Hospital) in a single day. 
 
The Aims will include different groups of subjects (Aim 1: n=62, Aim 2: n=24, Aim 3: n= 32, Aim 4: n=32) intended for completion across 5 years (year 1: Aim 1, year 2: Aim 2, year 3: Aim 3, year 4: Aims 3,4, year 5: Aim 4). 
 
All Aims include three contact events with qualifying subjects; phone screen, in-person interview (estimated time: 2.5 hours), and the study day (estimated time: 9 hours)

Eligibility of study

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

  • Conditions: Healthy
  • Age: 21 years - 45 years
  • Gender: All

Inclusion Criteria
Drink alcohol
Able to understand questionnaires/procedures in English
 
Exclusion Criteria
Pregnant/breastfeeding women
Self-reported asthma or special sensitivity or allergy to fragrances
Taking nasally-administered medications

Additional Information:

Participants will be paid for their participation.
 

This study investigates how the brain makes decisions related to drinking alcohol and aims to understand addiction and the risk of developing alcoholism. The study will involve different groups of participants over several years to explore these aspects.

Participants will undergo three main procedures: a phone screening, an in-person interview lasting about 2.5 hours, and a study day which will take approximately 9 hours. These steps help researchers gather necessary data for the study.

  • Who can participate: Adults who drink alcohol and can understand English are eligible. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, individuals with asthma, or those using nasal medications cannot participate.
  • Study details: Participants will be compensated for their time.
  • Study timelines and visits: The study will last 9 hours. The study requires 3 visits.
Updated on 12 Jan 2026. Study ID: NEUR-NIH-OBERLIN-ALCOHOL, 1504341431
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Interested in the study?

This study is accepting only persons who receive care at a certain clinic or doctor or who are part of an invited group. Questions about this study can be directed to the study team listed in the description or contact your doctor to see if you are eligible.

Accepting Referrals by Invitation Only