Dr. Weerts’ research in the Cannabis Science Laboratory (CSL) focuses on the behavioral pharmacology of cannabis and cannabinoids in both laboratory animals and human volunteers. In her preclinical research she uses a range of behavioral techniques to explore potential therapeutic effects of cannabinoids while concurrently examining potential adverse side effects and abuse potential.  Recent work includes the evaluation and comparison of effects across different routes of administration (oral, vaped, and systemic injection) on pain sensitivity, anxiety, stress responsivity, rewarding and aversive effects, and neurocognitive function.  In the human laboratory, her research examines sex differences in the subjective, physiological, and cognitive effects of cannabis and cannabinoids following controlled drug administration and evaluation of pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics across different routes of consumption. She also conducts studies using Positron Emission Tomography (PET) brain imaging to study the effects of cannabis on brain cannabinoid receptors.

Recent Publications & Projects
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