Acute Cannabis Effects on Thinking and Mood

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This phase 1, interventional study uses a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover approach to compare the effects of a single 20 mg THC dose versus placebo on mood and executive function in regular cannabis users. Ninety-two adults will attend two sessions, receiving active cannabis in one session and placebo in the other, in random order. Participants must abstain from cannabis before visits and undergo screening, consent, and biological testing; outcomes will include cognitive and affective measures collected in a controlled laboratory setting. Cannabis is sourced from NIDA, dosed as a precise gram amount based on potency, stored securely, and administered via inhalation using a vaporizer under strict supervision. The study aims to isolate the acute cognitive and mood effects of THC in a healthy adult population with regular cannabis use, while excluding individuals with certain medical or psychiatric conditions.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* be 21 years of age or older
* be fluent in English
* use of cannabis at least once a week for at least one year
* inhalation as their typical method of administration
* be willing to abstain from cannabis on the day of their scheduled testing session

Exclusion Criteria:

* neurological conditions (e.g., neurodegenerative disorders, severe head injury, multiple concussions)
* serious psychiatric conditions (e.g., psychosis, bipolar disorder)
* family history of psychosis
* intellectual disabilities or learning disorders (e.g., dyslexia)
* chronic medical conditions that affect cognition or increase risk of cannabis use (e.g., heart disease, diabetes),
* heart disease
* pregnant or lactating
* use of illicit drugs in past 6 months
* heavy use of alcohol (drinking \>4 drinks \>4 times per week)
* nicotine/tobacco use
* have experienced a severe adverse reaction to cannabis (e.g., panic attack, psychosis)

Where it's running

• Washington State University
  Pullman, Washington, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Ryan J McLaughlin, PhD — Washington State University
• Study coordinator: Ryan J McLaughlin, PhD
• Email: ryan.mclaughlin@wsu.edu
• Phone: 5093356448

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.