Examining how THC affects men and women differently
Official title: Gender Related Differences in the Acute Effects of Delta-9-Tetrahydrocannabinol in Healthy Humans
Run by Yale University · NCT02781519 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests how THC affects men and women differently to better understand its immediate effects on healthy individuals.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 18 Years to 55 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Yale University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (West Haven, Connecticut) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 2015 |
| Main results expected | June 2026 |
| Study ends | December 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 10, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT02781519 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are healthy individuals with at least one lifetime exposure to cannabis.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are cannabis naive or currently taking estrogen supplements or oral contraceptives 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 the acute effects of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) on healthy individuals, focusing on gender-related differences. It aims to characterize how men and women respond to THC and to explore the underlying mechanisms of these differences. Participants will receive either THC or a placebo to assess the immediate effects of the substance. The study is designed to enhance understanding of cannabinoid effects across genders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more tailored cannabis treatments based on gender-specific responses.
How similar studies have gone: While studies on cannabinoids exist, this specific focus on gender differences is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * at least one lifetime exposure to cannabis * good physical and mental health Exclusion Criteria: * cannabis naive individuals * major current or recent stressors * taking estrogen supplements or oral contraceptive pills (for women)
Where it's running
-
Biological Studies Unit at the VA Connecticut Healthcare System, Yale School of Medicine
West Haven, Connecticut, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Christina Luddy, BS
- Email: christina.luddy@yale.edu
- Phone: 203-932-5711
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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.