Does Propranolol, a Beta Blocker, Attenuate Stress-Induced Drinking?

For this protocol, the investigators plan to conduct a pilot study evaluating the effect of propranolol on alcohol consumption. Using a parallel design, the investigators plan to randomize 20 non-treatment seeking adults with alcohol use disorders (DSM-5) to propranolol extended release (160mg/day or placebo; n=10 per cell) to evaluate whether propranolol reduces alcohol self-administered in the laboratory. Importantly, the investigators will evaluate whether propranolol counteracts stress-induced effects on alcohol self-administration. Following titration to steady state medication levels over a 2-week period, each subject will complete two laboratory sessions consisting of a well validated method for inducing stress or neutral/relaxing state (order counterbalanced), followed by a 2-hour alcohol self-administration paradigm known to be sensitive to medication effects.