Using cannabidiol and buprenorphine to improve treatment for opioid use disorder
Official title: Cannabidiol and buprenorphine: A poly-pharmacy approach to treat opioid use disorder
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11165968 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether combining CBD with lower doses of buprenorphine can help people with opioid use disorder feel better and stick with their treatment while experiencing fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | August 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $76,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32DA063281-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11165968 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with opioid use disorder who are currently prescribed buprenorphine.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not diagnosed with opioid use disorder or those who are not currently on buprenorphine treatment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the combined use of cannabidiol (CBD) and buprenorphine to enhance treatment outcomes for individuals with opioid use disorder (OUD). The study aims to determine if CBD can safely improve the effectiveness of lower doses of buprenorphine, which is commonly prescribed for OUD but often leads to treatment discontinuation due to side effects at higher doses. By exploring this poly-pharmacy approach, the research seeks to reduce cravings and improve retention in treatment without increasing adverse effects. Patients will be monitored for their response to this combination therapy over the course of the study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatment options for patients struggling with opioid use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with the use of cannabinoids as adjunctive treatments for substance use disorders, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Galbo Thomma, Lindsey — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Galbo Thomma, Lindsey
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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.