Investigating how cannabis affects brain function in adolescents

Cannabis Toxicology in Relation to Neurocognitive Outcomes in Adolescents

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11042714

This study is looking at how using cannabis and being around others who use it might affect the thinking skills of teenagers, like their memory and attention, by checking cannabinoid levels in hair samples instead of relying on what people say about their use.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11042714 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research examines the impact of cannabis use and secondhand exposure on cognitive outcomes in adolescents. By analyzing hair samples, the study aims to measure cannabinoid levels and their correlation with cognitive abilities such as memory and attention. The approach addresses limitations of previous studies that relied on self-reported cannabis use, providing a more accurate assessment of exposure. The findings could help clarify the effects of cannabis on young people's brain development.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents aged 12-20 who have used cannabis or have been exposed to secondhand cannabis smoke.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use cannabis and have no exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and guidelines regarding cannabis use among adolescents, potentially improving cognitive health outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown varying results regarding cannabis effects on cognition, making this approach novel and potentially groundbreaking.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.