Effects of exercise on brain function in chronic cannabis users

Effect of Acute Exercise on Cognitive Functions and Blood Markers of Brain Plasticity in Regular Chronic Cannabis Users

NA · University Hospital, Lille · NCT06081218

This study is testing how exercise affects brain function and health in people who regularly use cannabis compared to those who don't.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Hospital, Lille (other)
Locations1 site (Lille)
Trial IDNCT06081218 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how acute exercise influences cognitive functions and blood markers related to brain plasticity in individuals who regularly use cannabis. It aims to compare the endocannabinoid system's response to exercise between chronic cannabis users and non-users. Participants will undergo activity tests to assess these effects, focusing on the relationship between exercise and neurogenesis. The study seeks to understand the potential benefits of exercise in modifying the effects of chronic cannabis use on brain health.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include chronic cannabis users who meet specific consumption criteria and healthy individuals with no recent cannabis use.

Not a fit: Patients with other substance use disorders, neurological disorders, or significant obesity may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into how exercise may improve cognitive function and brain health in chronic cannabis users.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study is novel, previous research has indicated potential benefits of exercise on brain health, suggesting a promising area of investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Cannabis consumer group:

* Cannabis consumption \> 100 times in lifetime, last exposure \< 7 days, and recent exposure \> 10 times in the month.
* Positive toxicological urine test for ∆-9-THC.
* Having a cannabis use disorder according to the CAST.

Healthy group:

* Negative urine toxicological test for cannabis.
* No regular cannabis use for more than 6 months once in a lifetime.
* No cannabis consumption in the 6 months preceding the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

For all subjects :

* Disorders of use of other substances (alcohol, cocaine, opioid, or synthetic drugs).
* Alcohol consumption greater than 30g per day (averaged over one week) and/or alcohol abuse the week preceding the visit.
* Under medical treatment.
* Presence of diagnosed neurological disorders.
* Diagnosis of a psychotic picture entering axis I, DSM-5.
* Chronic progressive disease or in remission.
* Body mass index \> 30 kg/m2 (i.e. presence of obesity).

Where this trial is running

Lille

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Cannabis User

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.