Investigating how cannabis and opioid policies affect chronic pain and overdose rates

Examining the synergistic effects of cannabis and prescription opioid policies on chronic pain, opioid prescribing, and opioid overdose

NIH-funded research New York University School of Medicine · NIH-10523523

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNew York University School of Medicine NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10523523 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic pain who are currently prescribed opioids or benzodiazepines.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use opioids or benzodiazepines for pain management may not receive direct benefits from this research.

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 performed: 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, 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 DiseaseDisorder
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.