Understanding how CBD can help manage pain

Mechanism and optimization of CBD-mediated analgesic effects (Admin Supplement)

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10847933

This study is looking at how cannabidiol (CBD) can help relieve chronic pain in adults by understanding how it works in the brain and spinal cord, so patients can learn more about using CBD for pain relief without the high that comes from THC.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10847933 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, can effectively relieve chronic pain in adults. The study aims to explore how CBD interacts with specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord to enhance its pain-relieving effects. By examining the role of KCC2, a protein that helps regulate chloride levels in neurons, the researchers hope to optimize CBD's analgesic properties. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how CBD can be used in pain management without the psychoactive effects associated with THC.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who experience chronic pain and are seeking alternative pain management options.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic pain or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective pain management strategies using CBD, providing relief for patients suffering from chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using cannabinoids for pain management, but this specific approach focusing on CBD and KCC2 is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.