Sensory and Physical Reactions to Beverage Cues

Cue reactivity paradigms are widely used in alcohol use disorder (AUD) research.Utilizing matched alternative beverages offers a unique methodological tool to evaluatethese cue‐driven responses. This randomized, double‐blind, within‐subjects crossoverstudy will evaluate craving and beverage liking to distinct beverage stimuli in adultswith AUD.The study will enroll approximately 20 adults aged 21 to 70 years with DSM‐5 diagnoses ofAUD (mild or greater severity). Following screening and baseline characterization,eligible participants will complete two identical cue reactivity testing sessions spacedapproximately 7 days apart. Participants will be randomized (1:1 ratio) to one of twosession‐order sequences (Sequence AB or Sequence BA). In one session, participants willbe exposed to cues corresponding to a target test beverage (prepared to match theirtypical brand, mixer, and glassware); in the other session, participants will be exposedto a visually and odor‐matched similar beverage condition. Participants and study staffwill remain fully blinded to condition assignments across both visits.Each testing visit consists of standardized pre‐session clinical evaluations (includingbreathalyzer testing, vital signs, withdrawal monitoring, and baseline cravingquestionnaires) followed by a 2‐trial cue reactivity protocol conducted in a controlledenvironment. During each session, participants are exposed to a neutral water cue trialfollowed by a test‐beverage cue trial, using pre‐recorded audio instructions that guideparticipants through holding and smelling each beverage without consumption.The primary objective is to determine whether exposure to different test‐beverage cueconditions produces changes in subjective craving, measured via visual analog scales(VAS). Secondary objectives include evaluating condition differences in beverage liking,peak craving levels, and the trajectory of craving return to baseline post‐exposure.