Exploring how alcohol and cannabis interact in pain and alcohol use disorder.

Alcohol-Cannabinoid System Interactions in the Context of Pain and AUD

NIH-funded research Lsu Health Sciences Center · NIH-10998061

This study is looking at how alcohol use disorder and chronic pain are connected, and it’s exploring whether cannabis, especially THC, can help manage pain for people dealing with both issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLsu Health Sciences Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Orleans, United States)
Project IDNIH-10998061 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between alcohol use disorder (AUD) and chronic pain, focusing on how cannabis, particularly its main component THC, may influence pain management in individuals with AUD. The study aims to understand the neurobiological mechanisms involved, particularly in the extended amygdala, which is linked to stress and pain responses. By examining how cannabis may either alleviate or exacerbate pain and alcohol dependence, the research seeks to fill a critical gap in treatment options for patients suffering from these interconnected issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with alcohol use disorder who also experience chronic pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have alcohol use disorder or chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for individuals with alcohol use disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using cannabis for pain management, but this specific interaction with alcohol dependence is less explored.

Where this research is happening

New Orleans, 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.
Conditions Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome VirusAcquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome Virus
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.