NCT04135846 · Brown University
Alpha-1 Blockade for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD)
(DOXY)
What this study is about
The goal of this research is to replicate findings previously conducted in a pilot trial and to understand, mechanistically, the role of stress in the development of AUD pharmacotherapies that target noradrenergic blockade.
View original scientific description
The goal of this research is to replicate findings previously conducted in a pilot trial and to understand, mechanistically, the role of stress in the development of AUD pharmacotherapies that target noradrenergic blockade.
Interventions
DRUG
Doxazosin
16 mg or maximum tolerated dose (MTD)
DRUG
Placebo
Matching placebo
Primary outcome measures
Alcohol consumption
Time frame: 6 weeks
Number of drinks per week (DPW) in naturalistic condition as measured by the timeline follow-back (TLFB)
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Male or female, 18 years of age
- Meet the DSM-5 criteria for AUD
- Desire to reduce or quit alcohol drinking
- Breath alcohol (BrAC) = 0.00 at each visit
- In good health as confirmed by medical history, physical examination and lab tests
- Willing to adhere to the study procedures
- Understand informed consent and questionnaires in English at an 8th grade level
Exclusion criteria
- Women who are breastfeeding or /positive urine test for pregnancy
- CrCl\<60mL/min
- Suicide attempt in the last three months
- Current diagnosis of other substance disorder other than nicotine as assessed by self-report and urine toxicology screen at baseline
- Current use of medication that may interact with doxazosin and/or yohimbine
- History of allergy to any alpha receptor blockers
- Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment for Alcohol revised (CIWA-Ar) score ≥ 8
- Treatment with disulfiram, naltrexone, acamprosate, topiramate within 1 month prior to screening
- Treatment with any alpha-blocker
- Individuals with cardiac heat failure (CHF), as assessed by the medical history, the physical exam and the ECG.
- Baseline hypotension defined as BP reading lower than 90/60 mmHg
- Use of phosphodiesterase inhibitors (PDE5) erectile dysfunction medication
Where
- Providence, Rhode Island
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 20, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations