Effects of THC on alcohol consumption and brain reward mechanisms
Official title: Effects of THC on Alcohol Consumption and Neural Correlates of Reward
Run by University of Colorado, Denver · NCT06446479 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests how taking a high dose of THC affects alcohol drinking and brain reward responses in people who use both substances.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 21 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 28 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Colorado, Denver Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, Colorado) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | June 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | August 19, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06446479 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals who consume alcohol and use cannabis.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who have contraindications for MRI or do not consume alcohol or cannabis may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates how high doses of THC (20mg dronabinol) influence alcohol consumption and the neural correlates of reward in individuals who use both substances. Participants will undergo a screening assessment followed by two laboratory visits, where they will receive either THC or a placebo before engaging in alcohol consumption while undergoing MRI scans. The goal is to better understand the interaction between THC and alcohol and its effects on reward processing in the brain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into how THC affects alcohol consumption, potentially leading to better treatment strategies for cannabis use disorder.
How similar studies have gone: While the interaction between THC and alcohol has been explored, this specific approach of using high doses of THC in a controlled laboratory setting is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Drink alcohol * Use cannabis * Contact site for additional details Exclusion Criteria: * MRI contraindications (implanted metal, weight \> 315 lb, etc.). * Contact site for additional details
Where it's running
-
University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus
Aurora, Colorado, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Elnaz Nourollahimoghadam
- Email: elnaz.nourollahimoghadam@cuanschutz.edu
- Phone: 3037246020
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.