CClinicalTrials.gg
TerminatedNCT04596267Updated Dec 4, 2023Results posted

Pitolisant Effects on Alcohol Self-Administration in Heavy Drinkers

A Phase 1 interventional study of Pitolisant and Placebo in Alcohol Use Disorder and Alcohol Drinking, sponsored by Boston Medical Center. Terminated at 1 site in United States. Open to participants aged 21 Years to 55 Years. Per ClinicalTrials.gov, last updated 2023-12-04.

Sponsored by Boston Medical Center · Phase 1, Interventional, and Treatment

Why this study was terminated
Study funding was exhausted prior to reaching the recruitment goal due to pandemic related delays
Phase
Phase 1
Study type
Interventional
Enrollment
9
Allocation
Randomized
Ages
21 Years to 55 Years
Sex
All
01

Study summary

This is a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover design trial that will test the effect of pitolisant on alcohol self-administration and craving following a priming dose of alcohol. The specific objective of this proposal is to determine whether pitolisant has effects on alcohol consumption and craving

Read the detailed description

The present proposal is intended to answer the call for accelerating drug development by exploring the potential of a novel anticonvulsant, Pitolisant as a candidate medication for the treatment of AUD. Pitolisant is an H-3 receptor inverse agonist that is FDA-approved for treating narcolepsy which has been found to have effects of on alcohol craving and consumption in preclinical studies. The aims of this study are to test the effects of Pitolisant on alcohol self-administration and craving among a sample of non-treatment seeking heavy drinkers. The effects of 5-days of pitolisant (8.9mg) or placebo will be evaluated in a human laboratory using an alcohol self-administration methodology. In this within-subjects crossover design, heavy drinkers (N=28) will be randomized to the order of exposure (Pitolisant or placebo) prior to completing two alcohol self-administration trials. Subjects will receive a priming drink of alcohol and will have access to 8 alcoholic drinks over a 2-hour period. The investigators anticipate that subjects will consume less alcohol during an alcohol self-administration trial when receiving Pitolisant compared to when they are receiving placebo. Significant Pitolisant-induced reductions in the quantity of alcohol self-administered will be considered to be an indication that this drug may have value as an AUD medication. This study may provide a rationale for phase II clinical studies testing Pitolisant with a treatment-seeking AUD population.

02

Conditions studied

  • Alcohol Use Disorder
  • Alcohol Drinking

Keywords

  • pitolisant
  • Wakix
03

Who can participate

Ages eligible
21 Years to 55 Years
Sexes eligible
All
Accepts healthy volunteers
No

Inclusion criteria

  1. 21-55 years of age
  2. Able to verify age with a state or federal picture identification
  3. Exceeds safe weekly drinking limits during the 28 days prior to consent (average of 14 drinks for women or 21 drinks for men per week)
  4. Reports at least one episode of binge drinking (>3 drinks for women, >4 drinks for men) in the 28 days prior consent.
  5. Meets DSM-5 criteria for mild alcohol use disorder or greater severity.
  6. Has a smartphone to complete medication exposure period study assessments.

Exclusion criteria

Exclusion Criteria:

  1. Seeking treatment for alcohol problems
  2. Clinical Institute Withdrawal Assessment at ≥10
  3. DSM-5 diagnosis of current major depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, bulimia/anorexia, dementia, insomnia disorder or a substance use disorder other than alcohol, nicotine, marijuana or caffeine
  4. If female, pregnant, nursing, have plans to become pregnant
  5. If female, does not agree to use an accepted form of birth control
  6. Has a medical contraindication to the use of pitolisant
  7. Has medical or mental condition for which further alcohol exposure at the planned dose range would be contraindicated
  8. Current risk of suicidality (MINI suicidality score greater than 8 (low risk) or Yes to the ideation question #4 of the C-SSRS)
  9. BMI is greater than 40 or less than 18
  10. Impaired renal function (GFR \<80 mL/min)
  11. Have a history of any clinically significant renal or hepatic disease
  12. Child-Pugh Score equal to or greater than Class B (evaluated based on presence or absence of encephalopathy and ascites, INR, bilirubin, and albumin) [https://www.mdcalc.com/child-pugh-score-cirrhosis-mortality]
  13. Have a clinically significant ECG as determined by the investigator or abnormal ECG heart rate (\<45 or >100 bpm) or QTc interval corrected for heart rate using the Fridericia formula (QTcF) > 450 msec
  14. Have a history of cardiac arrhythmias or who for other reasons are at risk for developing Torsade de Pointes including those with bradycardia, hypokalemia, and congenital QT interval prolongation
  15. Has received alcohol counseling or other non-pharmacologic intervention to treat AUD in the past 90 days
  16. Has taken medications that are used to treat AUD in the past 90 days
  17. Has urine toxicology results positive for cocaine, opioids, amphetamines, buprenorphine, methadone, methamphetamines, oxycontin, barbiturates, or benzodiazepines.
  18. Subject is taking a medication which will significantly alter drug metabolism (e.g., strong CYP2D6 inhibitors, strong CYP3A4 inducers, or H1 receptor antagonists that cross the blood barrier (e.g. diphenhydramine or meclizine).
  19. Subject is known to be a poor CYP2D6 metabolizer.
  20. Subject is unable to comfortably abstain from nicotine for a period of 8 hours.
  21. Has Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), history of solid organ transplant, sickle cell disease, severe heart disease or other health condition for which exposure to COVID-19 represents an unreasonable risk as determined by the study staff physician using accepted COVID-19 guidance (e.g. Centers for Disease Control, etc.).
04

Study design

Phase
Phase 1
Primary purpose
Treatment
Allocation
Randomized
Intervention model
Crossover assignment
Masking
Quadruple (Participant, Care provider, Investigator, Outcomes assessor)
Enrollment
9 participants (actual)

Study arms

  • Experimental
    Pitolisant

    Subjects will take an 8.9 mg dose (two 4.45 mg pills) of pitolisant once per day on day 1 through 4. On day 5, 8.9 mg will be taken in front of staff prior to an alcohol self administration trial.

    Drug: Pitolisant

  • Placebo comparator
    Placebo

    Subjects will take an placebo once per day on day 1 through 4. On day 5, a placebo will be taken in front of staff prior to an alcohol self administration trial.

    Drug: Placebo

Interventions

  • DrugPitolisant

    8.9mg Pitolisant for 5 days

    Also known as: wakix

  • DrugPlacebo

    Inert ingredients

05

What researchers measure

Primary outcomes

  1. Alcohol Consumption in Alcohol Self-Administration Trials

    Alcohol consumption will be measured by using a graduated cylinder to determine the amount of alcohol given to the subject that was not consumed. This outcome will be measured as standard drink units (SDU). A standard drink contains approximately 0.6 fluid ounces of pure alcohol. Lower SDUs are favorable.

    Time frame: 2.6 hours

  2. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 10

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable

    Time frame: 1 minute

  3. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 20

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  4. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 30

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  5. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 40

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  6. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  7. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  8. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  9. Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

    Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

Secondary outcomes

  1. Alcohol Craving During 12-day Drug Exposure

    The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) will be used to assess alcohol craving during the medication exposure period. The VAS is a 10 cm straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving. Higher VAS scores are associated with more cravings. Lower VAS scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 12 days

  2. Alcohol Consumption During the 12-day Drug Exposure

    Alcohol consumption during the 12 days of drug exposure will be measured using the timeline followback method. Lower (Standard Drink Units) SDUs are favorable.

    Time frame: 12 days

  3. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 10

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher BAES scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  4. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 20

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  5. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 30

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  6. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 40

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  7. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 30

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  8. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 60

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  9. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 30

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  10. Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 60

    Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  11. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 10

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  12. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 20

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  13. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 30

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  14. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 40

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  15. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 30

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  16. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  17. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  18. Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

    Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  19. Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30

    The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  20. Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

    The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  21. Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

    The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  22. Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

    The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  23. Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 10

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  24. Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 20

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  25. Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 30

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  26. Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 40

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  27. Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  28. Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  29. Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

  30. Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

    Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

    Time frame: 1 minute

06

Results

Posted Dec 4, 2023
Limitations and caveats
Recruitment was impacted by COVID-19 restrictions on human subject research, leading to a smaller number of subjects analyzed than planned. This study start date was also delayed due to problems securing the medication supply.

Participant flow

Medication Dispense/Exposure Period 1
Participant flow — Medication Dispense/Exposure Period 1
MilestonePitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then Pitolisant
Started45
Completed34
Not completed11
Withdrew: Lost to follow-up10
Withdrew: Physician decision01
Alcohol Self-Administration Trial 1
Participant flow — Alcohol Self-Administration Trial 1
MilestonePitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then Pitolisant
Started34
Completed34
Not completed00
Medication Dispense/Exposure Period 2
Participant flow — Medication Dispense/Exposure Period 2
MilestonePitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then Pitolisant
Started34
Completed34
Not completed00
Alcohol Self-Administration Trial 2
Participant flow — Alcohol Self-Administration Trial 2
MilestonePitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then Pitolisant
Started34
Completed34
Not completed00

Outcome measures

PrimaryAlcohol Consumption in Alcohol Self-Administration Trials

Alcohol consumption will be measured by using a graduated cylinder to determine the amount of alcohol given to the subject that was not consumed. This outcome will be measured as standard drink units (SDU). A standard drink contains approximately 0.6 fluid ounces of pure alcohol. Lower SDUs are favorable.

Time frame:
2.6 hours
Reported as:
Mean · Total SDUs
Alcohol Consumption in Alcohol Self-Administration Trials
Total SDUsPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption in Alcohol Self-Administration Trials67.214 ± 25.75966.786 ± 15.369
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 10

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 10
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 100.034 ± 0.0050.033 ± 0.010
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 20

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 20
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 200.038 ± 0.0090.0364 ± 0.011
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 30

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 30
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 300.037 ± 0.0030.034 ± 0.009
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 40

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 40
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Observation Period, Minute 400.033 ± 0.0060.031 ± 0.006
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 300.069 ± 0.0460.063 ± 0.033
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 1, Minute 600.072 ± 0.0370.047 ± 0.021
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 300.086 ± 0.0400.075 ± 0.046
PrimaryAlcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

Alcohol consumption will be measured throughout the study by their Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) measured by a breathalyzer test. Lower BACs are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breath
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60
Grams of alcohol/210 Liters of breathPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption (BAC): Self-administration Block 2, Minute 600.079 ± 0.0470.082 ± 0.056
SecondaryAlcohol Craving During 12-day Drug Exposure

The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) will be used to assess alcohol craving during the medication exposure period. The VAS is a 10 cm straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving. Higher VAS scores are associated with more cravings. Lower VAS scores are favorable.

Time frame:
12 days
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving During 12-day Drug Exposure
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving During 12-day Drug Exposure53.2 ± 30.147.2 ± 33.7
SecondaryAlcohol Consumption During the 12-day Drug Exposure

Alcohol consumption during the 12 days of drug exposure will be measured using the timeline followback method. Lower (Standard Drink Units) SDUs are favorable.

Time frame:
12 days
Reported as:
Mean · SDUs
Alcohol Consumption During the 12-day Drug Exposure
SDUsPitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Consumption During the 12-day Drug Exposure67.2 ± 25.866.8 ± 15.4
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 10

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher BAES scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 10
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 1031.714 ± 20.87830.714 ± 12.433
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 20

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 20
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 2031.429 ± 19.95730.714 ± 12.433
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 30

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 3029.571 ± 18.18331.857 ± 13.322
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 40

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 40
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Observation Period, Minute 4029.714 ± 17.55731.000 ± 14.944
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 30

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 3032.143 ± 19.46332.000 ± 11.719
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 60

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 6031.571 ± 18.83134.429 ± 14.954
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 30

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 3031.286 ± 17.79233.714 ± 15.348
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 60

Whether pitolisant increases the stimulant effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on stimulation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Stimulation: Self-Administration Block 2, Minute 6028.714 ± 16.68032.714 ± 16.007
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 10

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 10
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 1012.714 ± 8.92018.857 ± 15.742
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 20

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 20
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 209.429 ± 5.82718.286 ± 14.407
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 30

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 307.286 ± 5.40718.286 ± 17.114
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 40

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 40
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Observation Period, Minute 408.571 ± 7.30018.286 ± 17.026
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 30

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-Administration Block 1, Minute 309.714 ± 7.04120.714 ± 18.848
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 6010.286 ± 8.44018.143 ± 18.614
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 3011.286 ± 10.32317.571 ± 18.537
SecondaryAlcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

Whether pitolisant increases the sedative effects of a priming drink of alcohol will be assessed using the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES). It is a self-report, unipolar adjective rating scale that is designed to measure both stimulant and sedative effects of alcohol. It consists of fourteen items, that comprise two subscales (stimulant and sedative). Items are rated on a eleven-point scale from 0 (not at all) to 10 (extremely). The stimulant subscale can range from 0 to 70 and the sedative scale can rage from 0 to 50. Higher scores are associated with more stimulant and sedative effects, respectively. This section focuses solely on sedation. Lower BAES scores are favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol-induced Sedation: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 609.571 ± 14.31616.286 ± 19.914
SecondaryAlcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30

The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 3026.57 ± 10.93724.00 ± 3.964
SecondaryAlcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 6023.43 ± 11.67427.14 ± 11.466
SecondaryAlcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 3021.29 ± 13.04823.29 ± 12.079
SecondaryAlcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

The Alcohol Urge questionnaire (AUQ) is an 8 item measure of self-reported urges to drink in human laboratory studies that assesses the participant's urge for an alcoholic drink at the time the questionnaire is completed, Questions are in the form of a 7-point Likert scale (from strongly disagree to strongly agree) and participants select the extent to which they disagree or agree with the 8 statements relating to desire to drink, expectation of a desired outcome from drinking, and inability to avoid drinking if alcohol was available. The minimum AUQ score is 8 and the maximum score is 56. Lower AUQ scores are associated with less urge for an alcoholic drink, and therefore more favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Urge: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 6022.00 ± 12.05522.43 ± 11.731
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 10

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 10
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 1044.57 ± 22.97034.71 ± 21.623
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 20

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 20
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 2044.43 ± 31.40537.14 ± 23.398
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 30

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 3047.29 ± 26.26639.57 ± 26.038
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 40

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 40
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Observation Period, Minute 4050.57 ± 29.05134.86 ± 25.016
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 3041.29 ± 24.96539.86 ± 28.962
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 1, Minute 6042.14 ± 27.49240.86 ± 31.519
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 30
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 3035.00 ± 33.65045.57 ± 31.133
SecondaryAlcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60

Alcohol craving will be measured by self report with the Visual Analog Scale (VAS). The VAS is a straight line with one end meaning no alcohol craving (score of 0) and the other end meaning intense alcohol craving (score of 100). The Participant marks a point on the line that matches their amount of alcohol craving. Lower VAS score is favorable.

Time frame:
1 minute
Reported as:
Mean · score on a scale
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 60
score on a scalePitolisantPlacebo
Alcohol Craving: Self-administration Block 2, Minute 6041.14 ± 35.31542.43 ± 29.860

Adverse events

Collected over Up to 48 Days. Non-serious events are listed at a 5% frequency threshold.

Adverse event summary by group
GroupDeathsSeriousOther
Pitolisant0/7 (0%)0/7 (0%)2/7 (28.6%)
Placebo0/7 (0%)0/7 (0%)2/7 (28.6%)
Most frequent other events
Most frequent other events
EventPitolisantPlacebo
Bright yellow urineRenal and urinary disorders2/72/7
NauseaGastrointestinal disorders1/70/7
Increased ThirstGeneral disorders1/70/7
Left Ankle PainGeneral disorders1/70/7
Right knee contusion with abrasionGeneral disorders1/70/7

Baseline characteristics

Age, Categorical
Age, Categorical(Participants)Pitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then PitolisantTotal
<=18 years000
Between 18 and 65 years459
>=65 years000
Age, Continuous
Age, Continuous(years)Pitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then PitolisantTotal
Mean28 ± 633 ± 7.930.9 ± 7.1
Sex: Female, Male
Sex: Female, Male(Participants)Pitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then PitolisantTotal
Female123
Male336
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)(Participants)Pitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then PitolisantTotal
Hispanic or Latino000
Not Hispanic or Latino459
Unknown or Not Reported000
Race (NIH/OMB)
Race (NIH/OMB)(Participants)Pitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then PitolisantTotal
American Indian or Alaska Native000
Asian000
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander000
Black or African American011
White448
More than one race000
Unknown or Not Reported000
Region of Enrollment
Region of Enrollment(participants)Pitolisant Then PlaceboPlacebo Then PitolisantTotal
United States459
07

Study locations

1 site
  • Boston University Psychiatry Research Center, Clinical Studies Unit
    Boston, Massachusetts 02118, United States
08

References and documents

Study documents

  • Protocol and statistical analysis plan · Jul 7, 2022
  • Informed consent form · Oct 26, 2022

Documents are hosted by the registry — open the source record to download them.

Individual participant data

Plan to share: No — Deidentified data from this study will be submitted to the NIAAA Data archive (https://nda.nih.gov/).

09

Registry details

Key details

Study ID
NCT04596267
Lead sponsor
Boston Medical Center
Collaborators
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Responsible party
Sponsor
First posted
Oct 22, 2020
Start date
Sep 13, 2021
Primary completion
Feb 3, 2023
Completion
Feb 3, 2023
Results posted
Dec 4, 2023
Last update
Dec 4, 2023

Study contacts

Eric Devine, PhD
principal investigator · Boston Medical Center

Oversight

Data monitoring committee
No
FDA-regulated drug
Yes
FDA-regulated device
No
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