Methylphenidate and Response to Alcohol Cues

Description

The purpose of this study is to determine whether changes in attention levels related to taking a single dose of a medication called methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, affects responses to alcohol cues. The study will observe the effects of methylphenidate or a placebo on attentional bias and craving responses to alcohol cues through fMRI, EEG, and behavioral testing. Participants will be involved in one remote and two in-person sessions.

Conditions

Alcohol Use Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

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Study Overview

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Study Details

Study overview

The purpose of this study is to determine whether changes in attention levels related to taking a single dose of a medication called methylphenidate, also known as Ritalin, affects responses to alcohol cues. The study will observe the effects of methylphenidate or a placebo on attentional bias and craving responses to alcohol cues through fMRI, EEG, and behavioral testing. Participants will be involved in one remote and two in-person sessions.

Methylphenidate and Response to Alcohol Cues (MARA) Pilot Study

Methylphenidate and Response to Alcohol Cues

Condition
Alcohol Use Disorder
Intervention / Treatment

-

Contacts and Locations

Gainesville

University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, United States, 32610

Participation Criteria

Researchers look for people who fit a certain description, called eligibility criteria. Some examples of these criteria are a person's general health condition or prior treatments.

For general information about clinical research, read Learn About Studies.

Eligibility Criteria

  • * Adults ages 18-25 years
  • * Meets DSM-5 criteria for AUD
  • * Meets DSM-5 criteria for ADHD
  • * Fluent in English
  • * Normal or corrected to normal vision
  • * Meets DSM-5 criteria for bipolar disorder, psychotic disorders, neurological disorders, or substance use disorders other than AUD.
  • * Participant routinely uses psychoactive drugs or medications except for non-dependent marijuana or nicotine use (due to common use of these substances in individuals with AUD).
  • * Participant has contraindications for taking methylphenidate.
  • * Participant has contraindications for being in an MRI machine
  • * Self-reported history of high blood pressure over 140/90 or consistent readings of 140/90 or above upon arrival for a session.
  • * History of seizure disorder
  • * Liver disease
  • * Participant is currently pregnant or trying to become pregnant

Ages Eligible for Study

18 Years to 25 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study

ALL

Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Collaborators and Investigators

University of Florida,

Study Record Dates

2025-06