Results from a pilot clinical trial of varenicline for the treatment of alcohol dependence

Background

Alcohol use, abuse and dependence remain a pressing public health problem. Based on its mechanism of action, varenicline seemed to be a likely candidate for treating alcohol dependence.

Methods

Alcohol dependent subjects (n = 40) were enrolled in a 13-week double-blind placebo controlled clinical trial. Subject visits were once per week. At each visit, subjects were tested for breath alcohol levels, provided self-report data on alcohol and nicotine use, and on mood and craving. In addition, subjects received once a week medical management (MM).

Results

There was no difference between varenicline and placebo treated groups on any of the drinking outcomes. Compared to placebo-treated subjects, varenicline treated subjects had decreased rates of alcohol craving and cigarette smoking, as well as greater mood improvements during the later part of the study (weeks 6–13). In addition, among subjects who were cigarette smokers, those treated with varenicline were significantly less likely to report heavy drinking during the trial.

Conclusions

Although varenicline was not significantly more effective than placebo at reducing drinking during the trial, its effects on alcohol craving and mood suggest that future investigation of the mechanism of action of varenicline, as well as additional clinical studies may be warranted. In particular, the findings regarding the influence of smoking status on heavy drinking among varenicline-treated subjects should be investigated in future studies.