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Clinical trials

Digital Cognitive Training Programs Show Promise in Treating Alcohol Use Disorder

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers at the University of Southern Denmark conducted a double-blinded, randomized controlled efficacy trial to examine the effectiveness of a smartphone-based serious gaming app, Brain+ Alco-Recover, in addressing cognitive impairments associated with alcohol use disorder (AUD). The study, published in JMIR Mental Health, involved 72 outpatients with AUD who were randomized into either an experimental group receiving the app as an add-on to treatment-as-usual (TAU) or a sham group also receiving TAU. The results showed that patients in the experimental group reported a high level of acceptability, with up to 83% meeting the minimum requirements for app usage. Moreover, significant improvements in working memory were observed in the experimental group compared to the sham group.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study highlights the potential of digital cognitive training programs in addressing cognitive impairments associated with AUD.
  • The Brain+ Alco-Recover app, a smartphone-based serious gaming program, demonstrated high acceptability and effective usage among patients with AUD.
  • Significant improvements in working memory were observed in the experimental group compared to the sham group.
  • The study suggests that digital cognitive training programs could be a useful adjunct to conventional treatment for AUD.
  • The introduction of gamified elements to the training program increased motivation and adherence among patients.

Statistics:

  • 72 outpatients with AUD participated in the study.
  • 36 patients were randomized into the experimental group.
  • 36 patients were randomized into the sham group.
  • Up to 83% of patients in the experimental group met the minimum requirements for app usage.
  • Significant improvements in working memory were observed in the experimental group (P < 0.05).
  • The study suggests that further replication in a larger-scale trial is warranted to assess the potential of digital cognitive training programs in improving the treatment of AUD.

Sources:

  • NewsRx. 2025. Study Findings from University of Southern Denmark Broaden Understanding of Clinical Trials and Studies (A Personalized and Smartphone-Based Serious Gaming App Targeting Cognitive Impairments in Alcohol Use Disorder: Double-Blinded, Randomized ...). Clinical Trials Week. October 20, 2025; p 3128.
  • A Personalized and Smartphone-Based Serious Gaming App Targeting Cognitive Impairments in Alcohol Use Disorder: Double-Blinded, Randomized Controlled Efficacy Trial Among Outpatients. JMIR Mental Health, 2025;12.

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