Using cannabis to help manage pain and mood in cancer patients

Cannabis for Palliative Care in Cancer: A Placebo-controlled Randomized Trial of Full Spectrum Hemp-derived CBD/THC

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO · NIH-10896280

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

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10896280 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with cancer who experience pain, sleep issues, or mood disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients who are not currently experiencing significant symptoms related to pain, sleep, or mood may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Boulder, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: American Cancer Society, Cancer Patient, Cancer Survivor, Cancer Treatment, Cancers

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.