Understanding how protective strategies can reduce risks of using alcohol and cannabis together
Official title: Protective Behavioral Strategies on Alcohol and Cannabis Co-Use Occasions
Funded at University of Rhode Island · NIH-11082989 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how young adults aged 18 to 25 use alcohol and cannabis together and the risks that come with it, like impaired driving and blackouts, while also exploring helpful strategies they can use to stay safer during these times.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rhode Island NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kingston, United States) |
| Project start | May 20, 2024 |
| Project end | May 19, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AA031602-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082989 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are young adults aged 18 to 25 who engage in both alcohol and cannabis use.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use alcohol or cannabis, or who are outside the age range of 18 to 25, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the simultaneous use of alcohol and cannabis among young adults aged 18 to 25, focusing on the negative consequences associated with co-use, such as impaired driving and blackouts. It aims to explore protective behavioral strategies (PBS) that individuals can employ to mitigate these risks during co-use occasions. By analyzing data collected from college students through ecological momentary assessment, the study seeks to identify how these strategies impact substance use outcomes. The findings could inform future interventions aimed at reducing harm related to substance use in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to effective strategies that help young adults reduce the risks associated with using alcohol and cannabis together.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that protective behavioral strategies can effectively reduce harm in single substance use, but this approach in the context of co-use is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rhode Island
Kingston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Todaro, Sabrina — University of Rhode Island
- Study coordinator: Todaro, Sabrina
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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.