How cannabis use affects alcohol cravings and drinking in people receiving alcohol treatment
Official title: Effect of Cannabis Use on Alcohol Craving and Consumption among those in Alcohol Treatment
Funded at Brown University · NIH-10928194 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using cannabis might affect people who are getting help for drinking too much alcohol, to see if it helps reduce their cravings and drinking or if it makes things worse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $638,967 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AA030990-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10928194 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals currently receiving treatment for alcohol use disorder who also use cannabis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or are not undergoing treatment for alcohol use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between cannabis use and alcohol consumption among individuals undergoing treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD). It aims to determine whether cannabis acts as a substitute for alcohol, potentially reducing cravings and consumption, or as a complement, increasing them. The study will utilize an intensive longitudinal design to track changes in alcohol craving and consumption patterns over the first year of treatment, employing biosensors for accurate measurement. By understanding these dynamics, the research seeks to fill a critical gap in existing literature regarding the effects of cannabis on alcohol treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for individuals with alcohol use disorder by clarifying the role of cannabis in managing alcohol cravings and consumption.
How similar studies have gone: While there is preliminary evidence regarding cannabis use and alcohol consumption, this research aims to explore these relationships in a novel and intensive manner, making it a significant advancement in understanding this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gunn, Rachel Lyn — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Gunn, Rachel Lyn
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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.