How using alcohol and cannabis together affects behavior and brain function

Neurobehavioral Effects of Frequent Co-use of Alcohol and Cannabis

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State University, the · NIH-10930803

This study is looking at how using alcohol and cannabis together affects your brain and behavior, especially when you're feeling stressed, and it's for people who use one or both of these substances to help us understand the risks better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (University Park, United States)
Project IDNIH-10930803 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of simultaneous alcohol and cannabis use on behavior and brain function. It aims to understand the differences in neural and hormonal responses to stress among individuals who use both substances compared to those who use only one or neither. Participants will undergo neuroimaging and complete assessments over a year to track their experiences with stress, cravings, and substance use. The study seeks to fill a knowledge gap regarding the risks associated with combined substance use.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals who frequently use both alcohol and cannabis, as well as those who use either substance alone or do not use either.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use alcohol or cannabis may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment strategies for individuals struggling with substance use disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that combined substance use can lead to increased risks, but this specific investigation into neural and hormonal differences is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

University Park, 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 2026-06-09 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.