Remote Twins & Cannabis Use Study
Researchers at the University of Colorado Boulder and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are conducting a study on high-potency cannabis products and their effects on mental health and psychosocial functioning in adult twins ages 21 to 48.
Fast Facts
Use cannabis regularly
Twins aged 21-48
Compensation
provided up to $370
Conducted remotely
Study Background
This study aims to better understand how high-potency cannabis products may impact mood, thinking, and overall mental health.
Cannabis products today vary widely in strength. Some people use high-potency THC concentrates such as hashish, oils, or butters, while others use lower-potency products like flower or do not use cannabis at all. Researchers are interested in learning whether these differences in potency are linked to changes in mood, mental health, personality traits, relationships, and day-to-day functioning.
Because twins share genetic and early life influences, twin research offers a unique opportunity to better understand how cannabis use may affect individuals differently. This study will also measure THC levels in a small blood sample to explore how the amount of THC in the body may relate to mood and mental health outcomes over time. About 400 participants across the United States are expected to take part, and participation lasts approximately one year.
Study Background
This study aims to better understand how high-potency cannabis products may impact mood, thinking, and overall mental health.
Cannabis products today vary widely in strength. Some people use high-potency THC concentrates such as hashish, oils, or butters, while others use lower-potency products like flower or do not use cannabis at all. Researchers are interested in learning whether these differences in potency are linked to changes in mood, mental health, personality traits, relationships, and day-to-day functioning.
Because twins share genetic and early life influences, twin research offers a unique opportunity to better understand how cannabis use may affect individuals differently. This study will also measure THC levels in a small blood sample to explore how the amount of THC in the body may relate to mood and mental health outcomes over time. About 400 participants across the United States are expected to take part, and participation lasts approximately one year.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to understand how high-potency cannabis products affect mental health and functioning, and whether THC levels in the blood are associated with changes in mood and psychosocial outcomes. All study materials and documents will be provided in English.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Must be a twin
- Use cannabis regularly
- Ages 21-48
- Have not experienced a traumatic brain injury
Consent to your twin knowing that you are enrolled and you may be using cannabis.
If you choose to participate, you will:
Complete a phone screening interview to determine eligibility.
Attend three Zoom visits over one year (each about 1.5 hours and spaced approximately 6 months apart).
Answer online surveys during each visit about substance use, mood, personality, and relationships.
Complete online thinking tasks during each visit.
Collect a small finger-prick blood sample using a mailed kit while guided by a researcher on Zoom (about 5 minutes).
Mail your blood sample back to the lab using a prepaid envelope or box.
Complete short daily surveys about cannabis use through a smartphone app between visits.
All visits are conducted remotely via Zoom, so no travel is required.
You will receive:
$100 by check after each of the three Zoom visits
$5 for each Daily survey completed
Participants who complete all study activities can receive up to $370 total compensation.
All study activities are conducted remotely, so there are no transportation costs.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.