Effects of THC on stress memories

Effects of Drugs on Stress Memories

EARLY_PHASE1 · University of Chicago · NCT06471647

This study tests if low doses of THC can help people feel less affected by stressful memories.

Quick facts

PhaseEARLY_PHASE1
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment48 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Chicago (other)
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT06471647 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how low doses of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) influence memories related to stress. It employs a randomized, placebo-controlled design with 48 healthy participants who will be assigned to receive either THC or a placebo. Participants will undergo a stress-inducing procedure and then have their physiological and psychological responses measured during a subsequent memory retrieval session. The goal is to determine if THC can reduce the impact of negative memories associated with stress.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18-35 with a BMI between 19-29 who have some prior experience with cannabis.

Not a fit: Patients with severe substance use disorders, a history of psychosis, or those who are pregnant will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into using THC as a therapeutic option for managing stress-related memories.

How similar studies have performed: While there is evidence suggesting cannabinoids can reduce stress responses, this specific approach to studying THC's effects on stress memories is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 18-35 y/o
* BMI 19-29 kg/m2
* some prior experience with cannabis (used at least 4 times, no adverse experiences, and current use no more than once a week)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current severe substance use disorder
* history of psychosis or mania
* Lack of English fluency
* Current DSM IV Axis I disorder
* Abnormal EKG
* Daily use of medications outside of contraception,
* Women who are pregnant or trying to become pregnant

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

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: Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, Stress

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.