Effects of THC on pain and safety in older adults
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Oral and Vaporized THC in Older Adults
This study is looking at how THC, the main ingredient in cannabis, can help older adults with pain and what side effects it might cause, so we can better understand how to use it safely for pain relief in this age group.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10705257 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main active ingredient in cannabis, affects older adults, particularly in terms of pain relief and potential side effects. The study aims to understand the pharmacokinetics (how the body processes THC) and pharmacodynamics (how THC affects the body) specifically in this age group, as previous research has primarily focused on younger individuals. By conducting a human laboratory study, the researchers will gather data on how older adults respond to THC, including its effectiveness for pain relief and any adverse effects that may arise. This research is crucial for ensuring that older adults can safely use THC for pain management.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who experience chronic pain and are considering or currently using cannabis for pain management.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years old or those who do not experience chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable insights into the safe and effective use of THC for pain relief in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: While THC has been studied in younger populations, this research is novel as it specifically focuses on older adults, a demographic that has been largely overlooked in previous studies.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: De Aquino, Joao Paulo — Yale University
- Study coordinator: De Aquino, Joao Paulo
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.