Current approaches using remote monitoring technology in alcohol use disorder (AUD): an integrative review.

Abstract

Aims: This integrative review aims to synthesize and update the current literature on mHealth applications and devices, such as smartphones, wearables, and breathalyzers, in alcohol use disorder (AUD) monitoring. It discusses the evolution of these tools, the current level of evidence, and facilitators and barriers to their implementation in research and interventions. The future potential for personalized interventions is also explored.

Methods: Integrative review. Three databases-PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO-were used to identify quantitative and qualitative English written publications between 2014 and 2024, using terms related to mHealth, remote monitoring, and AUD. Results were extracted and comprehensively presented by topic.

Results: Fifty-eight studies were included in the synthesis. Smartphones, mobile phones, breathalyzers, and wearables with transdermal sensors are the most frequently used devices for remote monitoring. The included studies demonstrated varying levels of development and evidence across devices. Ecological Momentary Assessment via smartphones was the most frequently used and, along with breathalyzers, was successfully applied in clinical trials involving interventions. Wearables were scarcely tested in interventions. Challenges related to adherence and psychological factors remain in a longer period of monitoring. Incipient use of predictive models integrating ongoing data shows promise in informing care providers and optimizing intervention delivery.

Conclusions: Evidence supporting mHealth tools for AUD remains uneven across device types. While smartphones and breathalyzers show greater clinical applicability, wearables and passive sensing remain exploratory. Robust, comparative research is needed to guide effective selection and integration into care.