Research

Evaluating Contributors to Relapse in Comorbid Major Depressive Disorder and Cannabis Use Disorder

Cannabis Use Disorder is a highly prevalent public health concern with limited treatment options, and the treatment options that are available are rendered less effective in the likely incidence of comorbid Major Depressive Disorder. This study will provide insight into a shared biological mechanism that has been implicated in both Cannabis Use Disorder and Major Depressive Disorder which may be specifically involved in relapse. Results from this study can then be applied to future medications development for comorbid Major Depressive Disorder and Cannabis Use Disorder.

Funding: NIH/NIDA F31-DA057051

Endocannabinoid Dysregulation in Cannabis Dependence and Acute Cannabis Withdrawal

This is a pilot trial examining the impact of regular cannabis use vs. cannabis withdrawal on plasma endocannabinoid levels (AEA, 2-AG) in people with cannabis use disorder. Aims of this project include evaluating changes in circadian rhythmicity due to withdrawal, determining if subjective withdrawal symptom expression is associated with endocannabinoid tone, and assessing potential sex differences in endocannabinoid levels during both use-as-usual and withdrawal periods. Results may be used to inform development of pharmacotherapeutics that target the endocannabinoid system.

Funding: NIH/NIDA U54-DA016511