Effects of THC on older adults

Acute effects of THC in older adults

['FUNDING_R21'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10811373

This study is looking at how THC, a substance in cannabis, impacts older adults by checking how it affects their thinking, heart health, and feelings of anxiety, to help understand if using cannabis is safe for them.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10811373 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how THC, a compound found in cannabis, affects older adults, particularly focusing on cognitive and cardiovascular responses. The study aims to understand the acute effects of THC on older individuals, considering their unique physiological and cognitive characteristics. By examining these effects, the research seeks to provide valuable insights into the safety and implications of cannabis use in this age group. Participants will be monitored for changes in cognitive function, anxiety levels, and cardiovascular health after THC administration.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are healthy older adults who are interested in or currently using cannabis.

Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years of age or those with significant cardiovascular or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help inform safer cannabis use guidelines for older adults.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically on older adults, studies on younger populations have shown varying effects of THC, indicating a need for focused investigation in older adults.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, 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.