Sex differences in how cannabis affects people who regularly use it
Official title: The Contribution of the Endocannabinoid System to Sex Differences in THC-associated Reward
Run by Medical University of South Carolina · NCT07815691 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This Phase 2 trial tests whether men and women who use cannabis several days a week respond differently to THC versus placebo.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 2 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Ages | 21 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 78 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | July 31, 2031 |
| Study ends | July 31, 2031 |
| Registry record updated | October 5, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07815691 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults 21–45 with DSM-5 cannabis use disorder, regular cannabis use, and willingness to use non-hormonal birth control (for females).
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals outside the age range, without DSM-5 CUD, or with contraindicated health or pregnancy status may be unlikely to benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Adults 21–45 who use cannabis at least four days per week will participate in three in-person visits. The study compares a THC dose to placebo, with questionnaires and a 1-hour brain scan to explore sex differences in effects. One visit includes a blood draw for genetic testing. The design aims to identify sex-specific effects and potential biomarkers while monitoring safety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could clarify sex-specific responses to cannabis and inform personalized approaches to treatment or harm reduction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous lines of research suggest biological sex can influence cannabis effects, but this exact design with controlled THC/placebo and neuroimaging is moderately novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Able and willing to provide informed consent 2. Age 21-45 3. Meet DSM-5 criteria for CUD 4. Report cannabis use ≥4 days/week on average in the last 30 days at screening 5. Provide a THC-positive urine sample at screening 6. BMI between 18-30 kg/m2 7. Regular menstrual cycle (females only) 8. Willing to use non-hormonal birth control for the duration of study participation (females only) Exclusion Criteria: 1. Meet DSM-5 criteria for any lifetime psychotic or bipolar disorder 2. Urinalysis results indicative of recent drug use other than cannabis 3. Current use of any psychotropic medication or over-the-counter supplements deemed by the investigator to have the potential to interfere with study outcomes 4. Current treatment-seeking for CUD or other SUDs 5. Meet DSM-5 criteria for any current psychiatric disorder other than nicotine or caffeine use disorder, mild alcohol use disorder, CUD, or ADHD 6. Females who are pregnant, nursing, or planning to become pregnant 7. MRI contraindications (e.g., metallic implants, claustrophobia) 8. Significant history of nausea associated with the use of cannabis and/or THC 9. History of cardiac or seizure disorders 10. Allergy to sesame oil
Where it's running
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Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, South Carolina, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Erin Martin, Ph.D.
- Email: marterin@musc.edu
- Phone: 843-876-3528
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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.