Sex Differences in the Interface Between Cannabis Use and Stress Among Emerging Adults
Medical University of South Carolina
Summary
The interface between cannabis use and stress is a particularly important focus for sex differences research in emerging adults. Given the dynamics at play in this critical stage when cannabis use is most prevalent, developmentally informed research is needed to guide tailored clinical interventions. This study will apply rigorous and innovative methods to elucidate sex differences in the nexus of cannabis use and stress among emerging adults with cannabis use disorder to guide the development of tailored treatments.
Description
Among the physiological systems most important to brain development in emerging adulthood is the endocannabinoid system, which among other roles facilitates cognitive and behavioral processing, including the underpinnings of stress management and resiliency. Sex differences in endocannabinoid system development have been identified, and emerging evidence indicates a bidirectional relationship between stress exposure and the endocannabinoid system during emerging adulthood. Repeated exposure to exogenous cannabinoids, such as those administered via cannabis use, perturbates endocannabinoid syst…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18–25 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: * Able to provide informed consent and function at an intellectual level sufficient to allow accurate completion of all assessment instruments * Meet DSM-5 criteria for CUD and report using cannabis at least five times weekly over the past month. While individuals may also meet criteria for other mild substance use disorders, they must identify cannabis as their primary substance * Age 18-25 * BMI between 18-30 (to decrease variability in CBD response and in endocannabinoid system measures) * AST, ALT, and total bilirubin within the laboratory reference range of normal * C…
Interventions
- DrugCannabidiol oral solution
Double-blind cannabidiol oral solution 800 mg administered once
- DrugPlacebo
Double-blind placebo oral solution administered once
Location
- Medical University of South CarolinaCharleston, South Carolina