The impact of early cannabis use on later opioid use disorder and related factors.

Early cannabis use and later opioid use disorder - the role of adverse childhood experiences, genetic liability and comorbid stimulant use

NIH-funded research Washington University · NIH-10999662

This study is looking at how using cannabis early in life might affect the chances of developing opioid use disorder later on, especially for those who have had tough childhood experiences or certain genetic traits, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding the long-term effects of early drug use on health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Saint Louis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10999662 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how early cannabis use may influence the development of opioid use disorder (OUD) later in life, particularly in relation to adverse childhood experiences, genetic predispositions, and the use of stimulants. By analyzing data from various sources, the study aims to understand the connections between these factors and the likelihood of developing OUD. The research will utilize a combination of genetic analysis and behavioral assessments to explore these relationships, providing insights into how early drug use can affect long-term health outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have a history of early cannabis use and may be at risk for developing opioid use disorder, particularly those with adverse childhood experiences.

Not a fit: Patients who have never used cannabis or those who do not have any history of substance use issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention strategies for opioid use disorder by identifying at-risk individuals based on their early cannabis use and other contributing factors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a correlation between early cannabis use and later substance use disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Saint Louis, 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.
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.