Telehealth Counseling for Alcohol Misuse in HIV
(ReACH3 Trial)
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This project will test the effects of a telehealth counseling program on reducing alcohol use and improving HIV viral control among people with HIV who drink heavily. In total, 600 heavy drinkers with HIV will be assigned to either (a) a single session of brief counseling on alcohol use or (b) brief counseling plus referral to a telehealth counseling program that includes multiple sessions of counseling by videoconferencing and text messaging support. To understand the effects of the program, participants' alcohol use, HIV outcomes, and health will be assessed over a 2-year period.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on counseling for alcohol use, so you may not need to change your medication routine.
What data supports the effectiveness of this treatment for alcohol misuse in HIV patients?
Research shows that motivational interviewing (MI), when delivered in-person, can significantly reduce alcohol consumption in men with HIV. Additionally, using technology like interactive text messaging and smartphone apps to enhance MI has shown promise in reducing alcohol and drug use among people living with HIV.12345
Is telehealth counseling for alcohol misuse in HIV generally safe for humans?
How is Telehealth Counseling for Alcohol Misuse in HIV different from other treatments?
Telehealth Counseling for Alcohol Misuse in HIV is unique because it uses virtual sessions to provide brief counseling and motivational interviewing, making it accessible for people in rural or underserved areas. This approach integrates alcohol misuse treatment with HIV care, potentially improving both alcohol use and HIV-related health outcomes.3581011
Research Team
Christopher Kahler, PhD
Principal Investigator
Brown University School of Public Health
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for people with HIV who are receiving care at one of the participating health centers and have a history of heavy drinking, defined as having at least one day with 4+ drinks or averaging more than 7 drinks per week in the last month. Those needing supervised detox due to severe withdrawal symptoms cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants undergo baseline assessments and are randomized to intervention groups
Treatment
Participants receive either a brief intervention or a brief intervention plus telehealth counseling
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in alcohol use and HIV outcomes
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Brief Intervention
- Telehealth Counseling
- Text messaging
Brief Intervention is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Alcohol misuse in HIV care
- Substance use disorder
- Alcohol misuse
- Substance use disorder
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Brown University
Lead Sponsor