Cannabis compound tested as a way to soften painful memories
NCT ID NCT06471647
First seen Jul 09, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This early-phase trial investigates whether delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, can reduce the emotional and physical responses triggered by recalling stressful experiences. Healthy adults aged 18–35 with some prior cannabis use will receive either a low or moderate dose of THC or a placebo before being exposed to cues linked to a stressful memory. Researchers will measure self-reported distress and heart-related responses to see if THC dampens the reaction, both immediately and one week later.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
- What this could lead to
- If THC dampens the emotional sting of bad memories, it could point toward a new way to treat conditions like PTSD.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early, small study in healthy volunteers, so results may not apply to people with mental health conditions. THC can also cause anxiety or paranoia in some people.
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Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
-
Early phase 1
The earliest testing in people: a first look at safety, in a very small group.
- Participants
-
36 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
-
Jul 2024
- Finished
-
Mar 2025
- Lead sponsor
-
Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
-
18 to 35 years
- Sex
-
Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
-
Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
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
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, Illinois, 60637, United States
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