Investigating how cannabidiol and terpenoids affect pain regulation in the brain

Cannabidiol and terpenoid interactions in amygdalar regulation of pain states

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11004673

This study is looking at how CBD and terpenoids from cannabis might help people with chronic pain feel better without using opioids, by testing different combinations of these compounds in animals to see how they work in the brain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004673 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the potential of cannabidiol (CBD) and terpenoids, compounds found in cannabis, to alleviate chronic pain without the use of opioids. The study will examine how specific combinations of CBD and terpenoids can provide both short-term and long-term pain relief by targeting the amygdala, a brain region involved in pain processing. Through a series of experiments, researchers will analyze the effects of these compounds on pain responses in animal models, aiming to uncover their mechanisms of action and potential therapeutic benefits for humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions who are seeking alternative pain management options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic pain or those who are not interested in alternative therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, non-opioid treatments for chronic pain, reducing reliance on addictive pain medications.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with cannabinoids in pain management, suggesting that this approach may be effective, although the specific combination of CBD and terpenoids is still being explored.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, 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 addictive disorder
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.