Kudzu Treatment for Alcohol Abuse

In a laboratory experimental setting, subjects will be treated with placebo or 2 grams of kudzu extract 2.5 hours before an afternoon drinking session. The investigators hypothesis is that the kudzu pretreatment will reduce alcohol consumption in this free choice, self-administration paradigm.

Inclusion criteria

• Capable of understanding and complying with the protocol
• Good physical and mental health (normal physical exam, ECG, blood and urine chemistries)
• Body Mass Index between 18-30, inclusive
• Age 21-40 years
• Moderate to heavy alcohol drinkers (on the average 20+ drinks/week) or a self-reported pattern of incidences of binge drinking 2 or more times per week (4 or more alcoholic beverages in one sitting)
• Have a stable living situation with current postal address

Exclusion criteria

• Concurrent diagnosis of Axis I disorder
• Current or past alcohol dependence; may meet criteria for alcohol abuse. Other drug dependence acceptable only if greater than 3 years.
• Immediate family history pattern of alcoholism or problem drinking (parents or siblings)
• Current drug abuse (other than alcohol or marijuana abuse). Past drug abuse is acceptable.
• Subjects cannot be actively seeking treatment for any drug or alcohol dependence.
• Subjects cannot use marijuana more than once a week. Marijuana abuse/dependence are acceptable if the use criteria is met.
• Maintained on an antipsychotic or antidepressant medication; taking prescription medications except certain short-term anti fungal agents and some tropical creams for dermal conditions.
• Tobacco use greater than 5 cigarettes per day
• History of major head trauma resulting in cognitive impairment or history of seizure disorder
• Heavy caffeine use (greater than 500 mg on a regular, daily basis)
• Subject has active hepatitis and/or aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) > 3x the upper limit of normal
• For female volunteers, a positive pregnancy test