Exploring the role of the endocannabinoid system in treating headaches

Targeting the Endocannabinoid System for Headache Intervention

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-11004080

This study is looking at how problems with a system in our body called the endocannabinoid system might cause headaches, and it aims to find new ways to help people with headaches by testing different treatments in rats to see how they work and if men and women respond differently.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11004080 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system contributes to headache disorders, aiming to develop new therapeutic strategies. By using rat models, the study will explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in headaches and how enhancing endocannabinoid tone could provide better treatment options. The research will focus on understanding the effects of specific compounds on headache symptoms and the potential for sex differences in response to treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic headaches or migraines, particularly those who have not found relief with current treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with headaches caused by structural abnormalities or other non-biological factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective headache treatments that address the underlying causes rather than just alleviating symptoms.

How similar studies have performed: While there is emerging evidence supporting the role of the endocannabinoid system in headache management, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.

Where this research is happening

TUCSON, 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.