Using hemp-derived cannabidiol to help people reduce cannabis use disorder
Official title: Hemp-derived Cannabidiol for the treatment of cannabis use disorder in concentrate users: A double-blind placebo-controlled randomized trial
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11089903 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether CBD, a compound from hemp, can help people who are struggling with cannabis use, especially those using strong cannabis products, by comparing two types of CBD—one with a little THC and one without—to see if they can ease withdrawal symptoms and reduce overall cannabis use.
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 | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $98,952 |
| NIH project number | 3R01DA059234-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089903 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 cannabis use disorder, particularly those who use high-potency cannabis concentrates.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not use cannabis or who are not experiencing issues related to cannabis use disorder may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of hemp-derived cannabidiol (CBD) in treating cannabis use disorder, particularly among users of high-potency cannabis concentrates. The study will compare the effects of two forms of CBD—one with a small amount of THC and one without—on withdrawal symptoms and overall cannabis use. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either CBD or a placebo, and their progress will be monitored over the course of the trial. The goal is to determine if CBD can help reduce the negative effects associated with cannabis use and improve mental health outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, accessible treatment option for individuals struggling with cannabis use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results using synthetic CBD for cannabis use disorder, but this research is novel as it focuses on widely available hemp-derived CBD.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bidwell, L. Cinnamon — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Bidwell, L. Cinnamon
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Hemp-derived CBD for reducing cannabis use in high-THC concentrate users
A randomized, placebo-controlled trial tests whether hemp-derived CBD can help adults who mainly use high-potency cannabis concentrates reduce their cannabis use.
-
Varenicline for Cannabis Use Disorder in Men and Women
A clinical trial will test if varenicline helps people with cannabis use disorder, with a focus on differences between men and women and added counseling to support craving and mood management.
-
Cannabis Use Disorder and Opioid Health Risks in Veterans: A Long-Term VA Study
A long-term study of veterans looking at how cannabis use disorder and its treatment relate to opioid-related health problems and hospital visits.
-
One-session computerized program with text reminders to help manage distress and reduce cannabis use
A short computer-delivered emotional skills session plus just-in-time text reminders to help people who use cannabis and struggle with handling distress learn to tolerate emotions and cut back on use.
-
Advancing Pregnenolone as a Therapy for Cannabis Use Disorder with Depression
A study tests pregnenolone as a therapy for adults who have both cannabis use disorder and depression and aims to reduce cannabis use and improve mood.
-
Cannabis use and HIV: how pot may affect aging and HIV outcomes
A big study will look at how cannabis use and cannabis use disorder affect older people with HIV, including how it relates to aging problems and HIV treatment success.
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.