The Drinking Dashboard for alcohol-induced blackout: A randomized pilot trial

Abstract

Background

Alcohol-induced “blackouts,” or memory loss for events that occur while drinking, are prevalent and problematic among young adults. They also increase motivation to change. This study developed and pilot-tested a theoretically informed digital health intervention (“Drinking Dashboard”) for alcohol-induced blackouts.

Methods

Data were collected using qualitative (Study 1) and quantitative (Study 2) methods. Participants in both studies were young adults (ages 18–30 years) across the United States who reported alcohol-induced blackout(s) in the past month. Study 1 participants (N = 22, 82% female) piloted the intervention for 1 week and then completed exit interviews to refine the intervention. In Study 2 (N = 169, 57% female), participants were randomly assigned (1:1 ratio) to the dashboard (n = 87) or screen time control (n = 82). Research staff were masked to trial outcomes. Participants in both groups completed baseline measures, 30 days of morning reports, and a three-month follow-up. Primary outcomes included high-intensity drinking, estimated peak blood alcohol concentration (BAC), blackout frequency, and alcohol-related consequences. Analyses were conducted using multilevel generalized linear models. This study aimed to prepare for a future trial of the Drinking Dashboard intervention.

Results

Four of five intervention participants accessed the dashboard, and half viewed it on ≥3 weeks. Per-protocol analyses compared the 74 who accessed the dashboard to 82 control participants (N = 156, 58% female). Overall, 83% of participants rated the dashboard as “good” or “excellent,” and 85% recommended it for friends who need help with drinking. Both groups reported decreases in estimated peak BAC, blackouts, and consequences, with no significant group differences over time. However, dashboard participants reported greater decreases in high-intensity drinking at 3 months [est = 0.93, 95% CI (0.04, 1.82)]. No adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

The Drinking Dashboard is feasible and acceptable and may reduce high-intensity drinking among young adults who experience blackouts. Results support a future trial.