Using cannabidiol to improve cognitive behavioral therapy for anxiety
Official title: Cannabidiol-enhanced cognitive behavioral therapy for generalized anxiety disorder
Funded at Wayne State University · NIH-11124492 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether adding cannabidiol, a safe part of cannabis, can make cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) more effective for people with generalized anxiety disorder, helping them better manage their emotions and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wayne State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Detroit, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,715,387 |
| NIH project number | 1R61MH137105-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11124492 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have generalized anxiety disorder or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of cannabidiol, a non-intoxicating component of cannabis, to enhance the effectiveness of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for individuals with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). The study aims to address the challenges faced by patients who struggle with emotion regulation, which is crucial for managing anxiety symptoms. By combining cannabidiol with CBT, the researchers hope to improve brain activity related to emotion processing and regulation, ultimately leading to better treatment outcomes. Participants will receive both therapies to evaluate their combined effects on anxiety management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for individuals suffering from generalized anxiety disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using cannabinoids to enhance emotional regulation in anxiety-related conditions, suggesting potential success for this combined approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Wayne State University
Detroit, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marusak, Hilary — Wayne State University
- Study coordinator: Marusak, Hilary
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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.