Using brain stimulation and training to help reduce cannabis use
Official title: Examination of potential effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) paired with reappraisal training for Cannabis Use Disorder
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10887016 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a special brain stimulation technique, combined with training to help manage emotions, can support people who are trying to reduce their cannabis use, and it will involve 60 participants who will be checked on daily for a month to see how they’re doing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $247,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R21DA058713-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887016 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Cannabis Use Disorder who are seeking help to reduce their cannabis consumption.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Cannabis Use Disorder or those who are not interested in behavioral interventions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (TDCS) combined with reappraisal training to help individuals struggling with Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD). Participants will receive either real or sham TDCS while engaging in training designed to improve emotional regulation skills. The study will involve 60 participants who will be monitored for changes in cannabis use through daily assessments over a month. Additionally, brain activity will be measured to understand how these interventions affect craving regulation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment approach for individuals with Cannabis Use Disorder, potentially leading to reduced cannabis use and improved emotional regulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using TDCS for treating other addictive behaviors, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Potenza, Marc N — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Potenza, Marc N
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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.