Investigating how cannabis and opioid policies affect chronic pain and overdose rates
Official title: Examining the synergistic effects of cannabis and prescription opioid policies on chronic pain, opioid prescribing, and opioid overdose
Funded at New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10523523 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how legalizing cannabis and changing prescription rules for opioids affect how doctors manage chronic pain and the risk of overdose, helping patients find safer ways to handle their pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2019 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $698,514 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA045872-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10523523 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic pain who are currently prescribed opioids or benzodiazepines.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use opioids or benzodiazepines for pain management may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research examines the impact of cannabis legalization and prescription opioid policies on chronic pain management and opioid overdose rates. It aims to understand how these policies interact and influence prescribing practices, particularly in patients who may also be using benzodiazepines. By analyzing data from various states, the study seeks to identify whether increased access to cannabis can serve as a safer alternative to opioids and reduce the risk of overdose. Patients may benefit from insights into safer pain management options and the effects of policy changes on their treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies and reduced opioid overdose rates for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the use of cannabis as an alternative to opioids, suggesting that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University School of Medicine
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cerda, Magdalena — New York University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Cerda, Magdalena
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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.