Researchers tested whether a supplement called beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) could help reduce alcohol consumption and cravings in animals. They compared two types of BHB supplements and found that the salt form worked better than the ester form at lowering how much alcohol the animals drank. Interestingly, female animals responded to smaller doses than males. The study suggests that BHB might work by changing brain chemicals related to reward and pleasure. While these results are promising, this research was done in mice and rats, so we don’t yet know if it will work the same way in humans.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a supplement called beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) could reduce how much alcohol animals drink and their response to alcohol
  • Who participated: Male and female rats and male mice in laboratory settings. The exact number of animals wasn’t specified in the abstract
  • Key finding: BHB salt supplements reduced alcohol intake in both male and female rats in a dose-dependent way, with females needing smaller amounts to see effects. The salt form worked better than the ester form at blocking the stimulating effects of alcohol
  • What it means for you: This early-stage research suggests BHB supplements might someday help people reduce alcohol consumption, but much more research in humans is needed before we can recommend it as a treatment. Don’t use this as a reason to self-treat alcohol use disorder without medical guidance

The Research Details

Scientists conducted laboratory experiments with rodents to test two different forms of a ketone supplement called beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB). First, they tested BHB salt and BHB ester in mice to see which form was better at increasing ketone levels in the blood and reducing the stimulating effects of alcohol. They measured how much the mice moved around and how their bodies responded to the supplements. Next, they gave BHB salt to both male and female rats and measured how much alcohol the rats chose to drink. Finally, they examined brain tissue from the mice to look at specific brain chemicals involved in reward and pleasure, particularly in an area called the nucleus accumbens.

This research approach is important because it helps scientists understand whether BHB supplements might work as a treatment for alcohol use disorder before testing them in humans. By testing both sexes, the researchers could see if males and females respond differently to the supplement. Measuring brain chemicals helps explain how the supplement might work at a biological level

This is a preclinical animal study, which means it’s an early-stage investigation designed to test basic ideas before human trials. Animal studies are valuable for understanding how substances work in the body, but results don’t always translate directly to humans. The study tested multiple aspects (movement, alcohol intake, brain chemistry) which strengthens the findings. The fact that results were consistent across different measures suggests the effects are real, but the lack of specific sample size information in the abstract makes it harder to evaluate statistical power

What the Results Show

The BHB salt supplement was more effective than the BHB ester at increasing ketone levels in the blood and reducing how stimulated the mice became when given alcohol. Importantly, the BHB salt didn’t make the mice move around abnormally on its own, suggesting it didn’t have unwanted side effects on general activity. When given to rats, BHB salt reduced how much alcohol they chose to drink, and this effect increased with higher doses. A notable finding was that female rats responded to lower doses than male rats, suggesting sex differences in how the body processes this supplement.

The researchers found that BHB salt increased levels of dopamine and noradrenaline in the reward center of the brain (nucleus accumbens) in male mice. These are brain chemicals involved in pleasure and motivation. The changes in these chemicals may explain why the animals drank less alcohol—the supplement might be affecting the brain’s reward system in a way that makes alcohol less appealing. The study also showed that BHB salt improved the glucose-ketone index, which is a measure of metabolic health

Earlier research had suggested that ketogenic diets and mixed ketone supplements might help reduce alcohol intake and withdrawal symptoms. This study builds on those findings by testing a specific supplement form (BHB salt) and comparing it directly to another form (BHB ester). The results support the idea that ketosis might be helpful for alcohol-related issues, but this is the first detailed look at how BHB salt specifically affects alcohol consumption and brain chemistry

This research was conducted only in rodents, so we cannot assume the same effects will occur in humans. Rodent brains and bodies work differently from human brains and bodies in important ways. The study didn’t specify the exact number of animals used, making it difficult to assess the statistical strength of the findings. The research didn’t test whether BHB works better or worse when combined with other treatments. Long-term effects weren’t examined—we only know what happened during the study period. The study also didn’t test whether BHB helps with alcohol withdrawal symptoms, only with reducing intake

The Bottom Line

Based on this animal research, BHB supplements show promise as a potential treatment for alcohol use disorder, but human clinical trials are needed before any recommendations can be made. Current evidence level: Preliminary animal data only. Do not use this research as justification to self-treat alcohol use disorder. If you or someone you know struggles with alcohol, speak with a healthcare provider about proven treatments

This research is most relevant to addiction specialists, neuroscientists, and pharmaceutical companies developing new treatments for alcohol use disorder. People struggling with alcohol use should care about this as a sign that new treatment options are being researched, but should not attempt to use BHB supplements as a self-treatment without medical supervision. Healthcare providers may find this interesting as preliminary evidence for a novel approach

Since this is animal research, there is no timeline for human benefits yet. If human trials begin, it typically takes 5-10 years of research before a new treatment becomes available to the public. Even if human trials show promise, regulatory approval would be required before widespread use

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If a user is working with their doctor on alcohol reduction, they could track daily alcohol consumption (number of drinks, type, time of day) and mood/cravings intensity on a 1-10 scale to monitor progress over time
  • Users interested in ketosis for other health reasons could track their ketone levels if they have a ketone meter, and correlate this with their alcohol cravings or consumption patterns. However, this should only be done under medical supervision
  • For anyone working with a healthcare provider on alcohol reduction, the app could provide weekly summaries of alcohol intake trends, craving intensity patterns, and mood changes to share with their doctor. This data helps providers adjust treatment plans effectively

This research was conducted in animals (mice and rats) and does not yet apply to humans. Do not use BHB supplements to self-treat alcohol use disorder without medical supervision. If you struggle with alcohol use, speak with a healthcare provider about evidence-based treatments that have been proven safe and effective in humans. This summary is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before starting any new supplement or treatment