Examining how long-term medical marijuana and opioid use affects driving in older adults

An open road driving performance task to examine long-term medical marijuana use and prescription opioid positivity in adults 50 and older

NIH-funded research Florida State University · NIH-11192233

This study is looking at how using medical marijuana and prescription opioids for a long time affects the driving skills of adults aged 50 and older, to help understand the safety risks for those managing chronic pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionFlorida State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tallahassee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11192233 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of long-term medical marijuana use and prescription opioid use on driving performance in adults aged 50 and older. Participants will undergo an open road driving performance task to assess how these substances affect their ability to drive safely. The study aims to understand the risks associated with driving under the influence of these substances, particularly in individuals who use them for chronic pain management. Additionally, the research will explore how these individuals self-regulate their use of medical marijuana and opioids.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 50 and older who have been using medical marijuana and/or prescription opioids for chronic pain management.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use medical marijuana or prescription opioids, or who are under 50 years of age, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved safety guidelines and recommendations for older adults using medical marijuana and opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant risks associated with driving under the influence of THC and opioids, suggesting that this study's approach is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Tallahassee, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.