Understanding CBD and Its Growing Popularity
As cannabidiol (CBD) products flood the market, researchers at West Virginia University (WVU) are taking a closer look at how these substances affect driving performance. With various forms of CBD, from gummies to oils, easily accessible, the need for comprehensive research has never been more pressing. The study aims to uncover whether the effects of CBD on driving differ between men and women.
A Deep Dive into Driving Performance
The ambitious project will involve 300 participants and expands upon a 2021 pilot study conducted by WVU public health investigators. Toni Rudisill, an assistant professor in the School of Public Health Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, explained that preliminary data suggested some differences in driving performance between genders after consuming CBD. However, the earlier study lacked a sufficiently large sample size to draw definitive conclusions.
“We want to explore this further to see if that relationship truly exists,” Rudisill stated. “This is going to be one of the largest CBD studies in terms of the number of people.” The research is backed by a generous $2.2 million grant from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, emphasizing the significance of this inquiry.
What Is CBD and Why Does It Matter?
CBD is derived from the hemp plant, which was declassified as a federally controlled substance in 2018. While CBD products are legal in most states, they remain unregulated by the FDA. Many consumers turn to CBD for its purported benefits, including relaxation and pain relief. However, the lack of regulation raises concerns about its safety, particularly regarding activities like driving.
“You can buy CBD pretty much anywhere, and we don’t know a lot about it and how it impacts individuals,” Rudisill noted. “It has potential side effects like sedation and drowsiness, which is why we’re interested in examining how it affects driving performance.”
The Study’s Methodology: What Participants Can Expect
Participants in the study will undergo a series of assessments to evaluate their cognitive and psychomotor functions, such as reaction times and lapses in attention. Initially, they will complete baseline tests before engaging in practice runs using a sophisticated driving simulator that Rudisill describes as “a very fancy video game.”
Following the practice runs, participants will receive either a 300 milligram or a 150 milligram dosage of CBD, or a placebo. “They will hang out with us for two hours, eat breakfast, and then go for a longer drive on the simulator,” Rudisill explained. After the simulation, participants will retake all cognitive and psychomotor tests and fill out an end-of-study questionnaire.
A Multidisciplinary Approach to Research
This study is not just a solo effort; it involves collaboration among several experts. Rudisill will work alongside Dr. Gordon Smith, a distinguished professor in the School of Public Health, Sijin Wen, a professor in the same department, James Mahoney, an associate professor in the WVU School of Medicine, and Dr. Treah Haggerty, an associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine. Together, they aim to provide valuable insights into the effects of CBD on driving.
Why This Research Matters
Rudisill expressed hope that the study will serve both the scientific community and consumers. “I think it’ll definitely add to the scientific literature and also help people make a more informed decision if it’s safe to drive when consuming these products,” she said. As CBD continues to gain traction, understanding its implications for everyday activities like driving is crucial for public safety.
Looking Ahead: The Future of CBD Research
The findings from this study could pave the way for more rigorous research on CBD and its effects. As the popularity of CBD products grows, so does the need for clarity on their safety and efficacy, particularly in activities that require full attention and coordination, such as driving. The outcomes of this research could be instrumental in shaping future regulations and consumer guidelines.
