NCT05510167 · Texas Cardiac Arrhythmia Research Foundation
Post-ablation Alcohol Impacts Arrhythmia Recurrence, Quality of Life and Cognition in AF
(PLATINUM)
What this study is about
Earlier studies have shown a dose-dependent relationship between alcohol intake and incident atrial fibrillation (AF) as well as a causal link with several risk factors for AF such as hypertension, obesity and sleep apnea. However, the effect of drinking (alcohol) on post-ablation outcome such as arrhythmia recurrence, quality of life (QoL) and cognitive function in AF patients is unclear.
View original scientific description
Earlier studies have shown a dose-dependent relationship between alcohol intake and incident atrial fibrillation (AF) as well as a causal link with several risk factors for AF such as hypertension, obesity and sleep apnea. However, the effect of drinking (alcohol) on post-ablation outcome such as arrhythmia recurrence, quality of life (QoL) and cognitive function in AF patients is unclear. Therefore, we aim to find the answer for a very frequently asked question, "is it safe to continue drinking alcohol (at the pre-ablation level) following catheter ablation OR should the intake be reduced for better outcome?", in this randomized trial.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Study arm
Participants will be asked to completely abstain from drinking or consume 2 or less drinks per week for 8 months following catheter ablation
Primary outcome measures
Arrhythmia recurrence
Time frame: 8 months after the ablation procedure for AF
Arrhythmia recurrence across all AF types at 8 months after the ablation procedure, off- or on-antiarrhythmic drug (AAD)
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
- AF patients that regularly consume \>5 alcoholic drink (\*12 g of pure alcohol/drink)/week
- Paroxysmal or persistent AF
- First catheter ablation History of alcohol-induced arrhythmia
- Willing to sign the written informed consent
Exclusion criteria
- Binge drinkers (alcohol dependence)
- Non-drinkers
- Psychiatric conditions
- MoCA score ≤ 17 on Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
- Patients with established dementia
- Medically unstable patients (acute/unstable or poorly controlled problems that would demand focused, relatively urgent or emergent medical attention)
- Unwilling for alcohol-abstinence
- Long-standing persistence AF
- Patient under legal protection
Where
- Austin, Texas
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 Sep 14, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations