Investigating how cannabis use affects the composition of human milk
Official title: Cannabis, Human Milk, and Multi-omics
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-10997386 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how using cannabis while breastfeeding might change the nutrients in your milk, helping us understand what that means for your baby's health during those important first six months.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | December 8, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $196,671 |
| NIH project number | 5R21HD113959-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997386 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are breastfeeding mothers who use cannabis and those who do not use cannabis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not breastfeeding or who do not use cannabis may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of cannabis use during lactation on the composition of human milk, which is crucial for infant nutrition in the first six months of life. The study aims to characterize and compare the metabolome, lipidome, and proteome profiles of human milk from mothers who use cannabis versus those who do not. By analyzing how different cannabis use patterns and cannabinoid concentrations affect milk composition, the research seeks to fill significant knowledge gaps regarding the safety and nutritional implications for breastfeeding infants. This work is particularly important given the increasing prevalence of cannabis use among reproductive-aged women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights into the safety of cannabis use during breastfeeding and its effects on infant nutrition.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research on this specific topic, preliminary studies suggest potential changes in milk composition due to cannabis use, indicating a need for further investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meehan, Courtney Lynne — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Meehan, Courtney Lynne
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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.