Efficacy and Usability of a Mobile Application Developed to Moderate Alcohol Use in Real Time

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to adverse consequences, including physical and mental health problems. Although there are many empirically supported cognitive and behavioral therapies for alcohol use disorder, the most widely available in-person treatments focus on abstinence rather than moderation. Moderation strategies are historically less common and are typically reported to be less effective, despite moderation being a common primary goal. In addition, most individuals with alcohol-related problems will never seek formal assistance from a health care provider. Technology-delivered interventions that focus on moderation strategies address several treatment needs.

We developed and tested the initial efficacy and usability of a mobile application focused on improving alcohol moderation through real-time pacing of consumption. Participants (n = 59) were randomized to use the experimental application or, conversely, moderation strategies proposed by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, including a drink-tracking card. Participants provided follow-up data regarding their alcohol consumption and alcohol-related consequences over a 14-day period.

The sample reported statistically significant and clinically meaningful reductions in alcohol consumption and alcohol-related consequences. However, the effect of the experimental condition was not significant. In addition, participants provided descriptive feedback on their user experience. Participants' ratings revealed significantly lower satisfaction and ease of understanding of the experimental application compared with their ratings of using the drink-tracking card in the control condition.

Results indicate specific revisions to the design and further evaluation of barriers to successful moderation to increase the efficacy of the mobile application examined. The current study provides initial evidence of the effectiveness of a mobile application aimed at moderating alcohol use. These findings can inform future studies aiming to provide mobile application interventions to individuals wanting immediate assistance to moderate their use without the help of a health care professional.