Effects of prenatal cannabis exposure on infant brain and behavior

Brain and behavior correlates of prenatal cannabis exposure

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON · NIH-11093514

This study is looking at how using cannabis during pregnancy might affect the brain development and behavior of babies, and it's for pregnant individuals who use cannabis only, so we can get clear results without other substances getting in the way.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11093514 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how cannabis use during pregnancy affects the brain development and behavior of infants. By recruiting pregnant individuals who use cannabis exclusively, the study aims to eliminate confounding factors from other substances like tobacco and alcohol. Researchers will use advanced imaging techniques, such as MRI, alongside behavioral assessments to observe any neurodevelopmental changes in infants. The study focuses on understanding the potential differences in impact between male and female infants exposed to cannabis in utero.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are pregnant individuals who use cannabis but do not use other drugs, tobacco, or alcohol.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those who use multiple substances, including tobacco and alcohol, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the risks associated with prenatal cannabis exposure, informing guidelines for pregnant individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been some research on prenatal substance exposure, this study's focus on cannabis and its specific effects on brain development is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

SEATTLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.