Using synthetic cannabinoids to help reduce substance use disorder
Official title: Pseudocannabinoids for mitigation of substance use disorder
Funded at Syncanica Bio · NIH-11146956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new, safer medications made from synthetic cannabinoids to help people dealing with substance use disorder, aiming to ease withdrawal symptoms without the risk of addiction.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syncanica Bio NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Sacramento, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $334,343 |
| NIH project number | 1R41DA061907-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11146956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are struggling with substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing substance use disorders or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of synthetic cannabinoids, specifically designed to be non-addictive and more effective than traditional treatments, to help individuals struggling with substance use disorder. The approach focuses on developing new therapeutic agents that can manage addiction and reduce withdrawal symptoms without the abuse potential associated with existing treatments. By leveraging the properties of cannabinoids, the research aims to provide a safer alternative for those affected by addiction. Patients may be involved in trials to assess the effectiveness and safety of these new compounds.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for individuals with substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using cannabinoids for managing addiction, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Syncanica Bio
Sacramento, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mascal, Mark — Syncanica Bio
- Study coordinator: Mascal, Mark
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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.