Alcohol hangover is an under-researched area and the lack of understanding of the biological causes of hangovers have delayed the development of an effective hangover treatment. While there is a high consumer demand for an effective treatment and there are currently many available products advertised as reducing hangover severity, there is currently no treatment with strong evidence for effectiveness.

About this study

This study will increase our knowledge of the biological causes of hangover, determine the effectiveness of a vitamin and amino acid supplement, and determine the link between biological markers (e.g. hormonal and immune system responses to hangover) and hangover-associated cognitive impairments. 

The primary aim of this study is to determine whether a vitamin and amino acid supplement can improve hangover symptom severity and several cognitive (e.g. response times and concentration) and biological changes (e.g. changes to liver function, inflammatory stress and stress hormone levels) that occur with hangover.

A total of 40 participants aged 25–55 years old will complete this trial. The supplement we are testing contains a mix of vitamins and amino acids, which have been shown to improve the breakdown of alcohol-related toxins and/or improve hangover symptom severity. The combination of these ingredients has not been previously assessed in relation to hangover. 

What’s involved?

Participation in this study will involve:

  • Attending Swinburne for two evening testing sessions (approximately 6 hours each) where you will be administered alcohol.
  • Attending Swinburne for two sessions the following morning (approximately 1.5 hours each) while you are experiencing a hangover.
  • You will be required to complete computerised cognitive testing, questionnaires on hangover symptoms, sleep and mood, and undergo blood (optional) and saliva tests (three over the entire study period).
  • Participants will be reimbursed $200 for their time.
  • Some participants will have the option to undergo brain scans (MRI). Participants who complete the brain scans will receive an extra $60.
     

Study progress

This trial has finished recruitment and study findings will be available soon. 

For further enquiries

Sarah Benson

+61 3 9214 5212

sarahbenson@swinburne.edu.au

Our research ethics and integrity

Our researchers are committed to the highest ethical, professional and scholarly standards. All our studies conform to the Australian Code for the Responsible Conduct of Research, Good Clinical Practice and the National Statement on Ethical Conduct in Human Research.

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Contact the Centre for Human Psychopharmacology

There are many ways to engage with us. If your organisation is dealing with a complex problem, get in touch to discuss how we can work together to provide solutions. Call us on +61 3 9214 4444 or email chp@swinburne.edu.au. 

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