In this research study, we are investigating the therapeutic potential of combined delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) in relieving both pain and opioid craving in people with co-occurring opioid use disorder (OUD) and chronic pain who are undergoing methadone therapy. This combination may be a promising treatment target because it shares crucial signaling pathways with the brain’s pain and reward mediation system.

You may qualify for a study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18-65
• Diagnosed with opioid use disorder & experience chronic lower back pain
• On a stable dose of clinically prescribed methadone
• Have used cannabis at least once in your lifetime
• No heavy reliance on substances other than tobacco
• No significant neurological conditions (e.g., stroke, neuropathy)
• Not allergic to cannabis, sesame seeds, or Butylated Hydroxytoluene (BHT)
• If female, not pregnant or breastfeeding
• No significant medical conditions

• This is an in-person study being conducted at the Clinical Neuroscience Research Unit (CNRU) at the Connecticut Mental Health Center (CMHC) in New Haven, CT. The study will require participants to come to the CNRU a total of 6 times.

  Participants will first come in for a screening session. If eligible, participants will be invited to three 8-hour test sessions, each separated by at least 72 hours. Across the three test sessions, participants will receive one fixed dose of THC or placebo, combined with one of three randomly ordered doses of CBD or placebo. Participants will complete assessments regarding 1) the effects of the medication, 2) the symptoms of their OUD, and 3) they will complete experimentally provoked pain measures.

  One week after the final test session, participants will be asked to return for a brief follow-up visit to address any unlikely lingering effects of the study medication.

Participants will be compensated up to $680 for completing the entire study, as well as reimbursement for reasonable transportation costs. Compensation will be provided after each visit in the form of cash or check. Breakfast will be provided in the morning, and snacks will be available throughout the day.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.