Exploring how cannabidiol laws affect substance use behaviors

Understanding cannabidiol policy and its impacts on broader substance use

['FUNDING_R21'] · RAND CORPORATION · NIH-11160963

This study looks at how changes in laws about CBD (a compound found in cannabis) affect people's use of alcohol and opioids, helping us understand if having access to CBD for medical reasons can lead to less misuse of stronger painkillers and fewer overdoses.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRAND CORPORATION (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SANTA MONICA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11160963 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of cannabidiol (CBD) policy changes on substance use behaviors, particularly focusing on alcohol and opioid use. It aims to understand how the legalization of medical CBD in various states influences public health outcomes, including rates of substance use and related poisonings. By analyzing the relationship between CBD access and changes in substance use, the study seeks to provide insights into how alternative pain management options may affect opioid misuse and overdose rates. The research will utilize data from states with varying CBD laws to assess these impacts.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals over 21 years old who are using or considering using CBD products.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use CBD or are not affected by substance use issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could inform policies that improve public health by reducing substance misuse and related harms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that marijuana policies can influence alcohol and opioid use, suggesting potential for similar findings with CBD policies.

Where this research is happening

SANTA MONICA, 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.