Investigating how cannabis affects pain and anxiety in cancer patients
Cannabis use and outcomes in ambulatory patients with cancer: A 12-month cohort study
This study is looking at how cannabis might help cancer patients feel better by easing pain, anxiety, and sleep issues, while also finding out if it can help them use fewer opioids for pain relief, and it will involve 600 patients sharing their experiences over a year.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11077681 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the use of cannabis among cancer patients to manage symptoms such as pain, anxiety, and insomnia. It aims to understand how cannabis might help reduce reliance on opioids for pain management. The study will involve 600 patients over a 12-month period, using a method called ecological momentary assessment to gather real-time data on their experiences. Participants will be divided into cannabis users and non-users to compare outcomes effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are ambulatory cancer patients aged 21 and older who are currently receiving opioid therapy.
Not a fit: Patients with skin cancers or those not undergoing opioid therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide valuable insights into the effectiveness of cannabis as a treatment option for managing cancer-related symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on cannabis use in cancer pain management, this research aims to fill a significant gap and is considered novel in its approach.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meghani, Salimah H. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Meghani, Salimah H.
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 below.