Understanding how nicotine affects marijuana use
Official title: Investigating mechanisms mediating enhanced THC reinforcement by nicotine
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11097205 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how nicotine affects the way people use THC, the main ingredient in marijuana, to understand why some folks like to use both together, and it could help find better ways to support those who have trouble with using multiple substances.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $521,816 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DA058955-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097205 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who use both nicotine and marijuana and are seeking help for substance use issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who only use one of the substances, either nicotine or THC, may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how nicotine influences the use of THC, the active component in marijuana, particularly focusing on the mechanisms that enhance the reinforcing effects of THC when used alongside nicotine. By studying animal models, the researchers aim to uncover the neural pathways involved in this interaction, which could provide insights into why individuals often use these substances together. The study employs advanced techniques to measure THC self-administration in rats, allowing for a detailed analysis of behavioral patterns and preferences related to substance use. The findings could help inform treatment strategies for individuals struggling with polysubstance use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals dealing with addiction to both nicotine and THC.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the interactions between different substances can lead to significant advancements in addiction treatment, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Torregrossa, Mary M — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Torregrossa, Mary M
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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.