Using cannabis to help manage pain and mood in cancer patients
Official title: Cannabis for Palliative Care in Cancer: A Placebo-controlled Randomized Trial of Full Spectrum Hemp-derived CBD/THC
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-10896280 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how full-spectrum hemp products with CBD and THC can help cancer patients feel better by easing pain, improving sleep, and lifting their mood, and it will compare these effects to a placebo to find out what works best.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $614,341 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA284860-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10896280 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with cancer who experience pain, sleep issues, or mood disturbances.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not currently experiencing significant symptoms related to pain, sleep, or mood may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of full-spectrum hemp-derived CBD and THC on pain, sleep, and mood disturbances in cancer patients. It involves a placebo-controlled randomized trial where participants will receive either the cannabis treatment or a placebo to assess its effectiveness in alleviating symptoms. The study aims to understand how different cannabinoid compositions may impact cognitive function and overall well-being in individuals undergoing cancer treatment. By comparing the effects of CBD, THC, and their combination, the research seeks to provide insights into safer palliative care options for cancer patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could offer a safer alternative for managing pain and mood disturbances in cancer patients, potentially reducing reliance on opioids and other medications.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using cannabis for symptom relief in cancer patients, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bryan, Angela — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Bryan, Angela
Related research
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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.