Effects of THC on alcohol consumption and brain reward mechanisms
Effects of THC on Alcohol Consumption and Neural Correlates of Reward
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 |
| Enrollment | 28 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 40 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Colorado, Denver Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Aurora, Colorado) |
| Trial ID | NCT06446479 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who consume alcohol and use cannabis.
Not a fit: Patients who have contraindications for MRI or do not consume alcohol or cannabis may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus — Aurora, Colorado, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Elnaz Nourollahimoghadam
- Email: elnaz.nourollahimoghadam@cuanschutz.edu
- Phone: 3037246020
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.