Alcohol and CBD
Research Study
Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are conducting a study to better understand how cannabidiol (CBD) affects alcohol consumption and alcohol-related behaviors in adults.
Looking For Individuals Who

Drink alcohol regularly

Have used CBD and cannabis in the past year
Fast Facts

Compensation is provided

Conducted in
Denver, CO
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are conducting a study to learn how cannabidiol (CBD) affects alcohol use in adults who drink regularly.
Alcohol use is common, and many people who drink regularly experience difficulties reducing their drinking or avoiding alcohol-related problems. Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in cannabis that does not produce intoxicating effects, may influence brain systems involved in reward, motivation, and alcohol use.
In this study, researchers aim to learn more about how CBD affects alcohol consumption and alcohol-related behaviors in adults who drink regularly. By studying how CBD may influence drinking patterns and related outcomes, we hope to better understand whether it could play a role in future treatment approaches for alcohol use.
Ultimately, the findings from this study may help improve our understanding of alcohol use and contribute to the development of new strategies to reduce alcohol-related harm and improve people’s health and quality of life.
Study Background
Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus are conducting a study to learn how cannabidiol (CBD) affects alcohol use in adults who drink regularly.
Alcohol use is common, and many people who drink regularly experience difficulties reducing their drinking or avoiding alcohol-related problems. Cannabidiol (CBD), a compound found in cannabis that does not produce intoxicating effects, may influence brain systems involved in reward, motivation, and alcohol use.
In this study, researchers aim to learn more about how CBD affects alcohol consumption and alcohol-related behaviors in adults who drink regularly. By studying how CBD may influence drinking patterns and related outcomes, we hope to better understand whether it could play a role in future treatment approaches for alcohol use.
Ultimately, the findings from this study may help improve our understanding of alcohol use and contribute to the development of new strategies to reduce alcohol-related harm and improve people’s health and quality of life.
Additional Information
In this research study, we are trying to better understand how cannabidiol (CBD) may affect alcohol consumption and alcohol-related behaviors in adults who drink regularly. CBD may influence brain systems involved in reward, motivation, and decision-making that can play a role in drinking patterns. In this study, participants will receive cannabidiol (CBD) or a placebo and complete several study visits, including an experimental lab session, where researchers will measure alcohol use, behavioral responses, and related experiences. By studying these processes, we hope to improve our understanding of the biological and behavioral factors involved in alcohol use and explore whether CBD may play a role in future approaches to reducing alcohol-related harm and improving health outcomes.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:
- Ages 21–65
- Drink alcohol regularly
- Have used CBD or cannabis at least once in the past year
- Able to attend in-person visits at Anschutz Medical Campus in Aurora
The entire study lasts about 13 weeks. Once enrolled, the study involves:
In the lab: You will attend up to 5 in-person visits at Anschutz Medical Campus, including a screening visit, a medication visit, a midpoint visit, an experimental lab session, and a final follow-up. During these visits, you will complete assessments of alcohol use, behavioral tasks, questionnaires, and receive either cannabidiol (CBD) or a placebo. The experimental lab session will last about 12 hours and may include blood draws and other assessments.
From home: You may be asked to track your alcohol use and experiences using brief surveys or other study tools between visits. These tasks are designed to take only a few minutes and help researchers understand your drinking patterns over the course of the study.
As a participant, you may receive compensation, as well as transportation to and from the experimental session, and snacks and meals during the visit.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.