High5 with Dr. Igor Grant, MD

Igor Grant, MD

Welcome to High5 with Dr. Igor Grant, Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research (CMCR) at UC San Diego. Each month, we’ll take you on a fascinating journey into the evolving world of medicinal cannabis. From groundbreaking research to candid conversations with top scientists and clinicians across the globe. In each episode, Dr. Grant poses five thought-provoking questions to his guest, uncovering their personal journey and unique contributions to the field of medicinal cannabis.

  1. 2d ago

    Cannabinoids as New Medicines with Alexandros Makriyannis, PhD

    In this episode, Dr. Alexandros Makriyannis discusses how understanding the body’s cannabinoid receptors can guide the development of new medicines for pain, obesity, and addiction. He explains how different compounds activate or block CB1 and CB2 receptors, and how mapping their three-dimensional structures helps researchers design more selective treatments. The conversation explores CB1 neutral antagonists, which aim to retain therapeutic benefits while avoiding side effects associated with earlier drugs, and CB2 agonists being investigated for inflammation and pain. He also describes findings in mice showing that blocking CB1 reduced a measure of fentanyl reward without diminishing its pain-relieving effects, while emphasizing the need for human studies. Emerging directions include comparisons with GLP-1 therapies and compounds that combine CB2 activation with CB1 blockade. A central message is that precisely targeting the endocannabinoid system may offer new treatments with fewer unwanted effects. Chapters 00:03 Combating Opioid Addiction with Cannabinoids 01:14 New chapter 01:15 Introduction to Cannabinoid Science 03:08 Understanding Cannabinoid Receptors 05:45 The Role of THC and Synthetic Cannabinoids 08:28 Exploring CB2 Receptors and Their Functions 11:15 Developing CB2 Agonists for Pain Management 13:43 Neutral Antagonists and Their Potential 16:31 The Future of Cannabinoid Research 19:15 The Importance of Structure in Drug Development 21:55 Combating Opioid Addiction with Cannabinoids 24:37 The Intersection of Cannabinoids and Obesity Treatments 27:05 Promising Cannabinoid-Based Treatments 29:54 Conclusion and Future Directions

    Cannabinoids as New Medicines with Alexandros Makriyannis, PhD

  2. Oct 16

    Cannabis & Sports: Athletes' Perspectives

    In this special episode of High5, CMCR Co-Director Dr. Tom Marcotte moderates a panel featuring Ricky Williams, Anna Simmons, Riley Cote, Greta Gaines, and Ross Rebagliati from CMCR’s 2026 Cannabis and Sports symposium. Drawing on their experiences in football, rugby, hockey, and snowboarding, the athletes describe how they have used cannabis to manage pain, anxiety, sleep, and the physical and psychological demands of recovery. They discuss how their use evolved over time, often alongside practices such as yoga, meditation, and greater attention to their bodies. The conversation explores stigma, drug testing, and differing interpretations of performance enhancement, including the distinction between supporting recovery and directly improving competitive performance. Panelists also reflect on circumstances in which cannabis use became problematic or required adjustment. A central message is the need for research informed by athletes’ experiences, including questions about mental health, women’s health, and differences across sports and individuals.

    Cannabis & Sports: Athletes' Perspectives

  3. Oct 1

    Football, Cannabis, and Following Your Heart with Ricky Williams

    In this episode, former NFL running back and Heisman Trophy winner Ricky Williams discusses his experiences with cannabis, social anxiety, and recovery during his football career. He describes how therapy and self-reflection while using cannabis helped him understand his anxiety, and how cannabis became part of a broader approach to recovery that included yoga, stretching, and meditation. He also reflects on the psychological burden of injuries when an athlete’s livelihood depends on physical performance. The conversation explores his experiences with the NFL’s drug-testing program, the shift he sees toward a wellness-focused approach to cannabis, and barriers to research involving athletes. Drawing on his forthcoming memoir, The Long Run, Williams discusses finding meaning beyond others’ expectations. A central message is his call for researchers to listen to people who use cannabis and approach their experiences with curiosity when developing research questions. Chapters: 00:56 Introduction to Ricky Williams and Medicinal Cannabis 02:14 Ricky's Journey with Anxiety and Cannabis 04:15 The Role of Cannabis in Pain Management 06:49 NFL's Changing Perspective on Cannabis 09:29 The Impact of Injuries on Mental Health 12:09 Research and Understanding of Cannabis Use 14:56 Ricky's Upcoming Memoir and Life Lessons 17:16 Stigma and the Future of Cannabis Research 20:26 Stigma and the Future of Cannabis Research 20:26 Outro

    Football, Cannabis, and Following Your Heart with Ricky Williams

  4. Jul 31

    Cannabis, the Gut and the Metabolic Paradox with Nicholas DiPatrizio, PhD

    In this episode, Dr. Nicholas DiPatrizio discusses how the endocannabinoid system helps regulate appetite, nutrient sensing, metabolism, and communication between the gut and brain. He describes findings from mouse studies showing how cannabinoid signaling in the intestinal lining may promote preferences for foods high in fat and sugar and interfere with signals that normally tell the brain when to stop eating. He also explores the “cannabis paradox,” in which cannabis can stimulate appetite while chronic users tend to have lower body weight and a reduced likelihood of type 2 diabetes. The conversation examines research comparing pure delta-9 THC with whole-cannabis extract, including evidence in obese mice that both reduced body weight but only the whole extract reversed diabetes-like metabolic dysfunction. A central message is that therapies targeting cannabinoid receptors specifically in the gut may one day improve metabolic health while limiting unwanted effects on the brain.

    Cannabis, the Gut and the Metabolic Paradox with Nicholas DiPatrizio, PhD

  5. Jun 1

    Cannabis, Brain, and Aging with Kent Hutchison PhD

    In this episode, Dr. Kent Hutchison discusses how his research on cannabis grew from a background in alcohol and nicotine studies into a broader effort to understand both the risks and potential benefits of cannabis use. He describes findings from large brain-imaging datasets suggesting that lifetime cannabis use was associated with larger regional brain volumes and better performance on some cognitive tests in older adults. He also discusses why cannabis may affect adolescents and older adults differently, including age-related changes in the endocannabinoid system. The conversation explores possible neuroprotective effects of cannabinoids, the use of cannabis among older adults for pain, sleep, and anxiety, and emerging research on cannabis and exercise. A central message is that cannabis effects depend on the product, dose, route of administration, age, health status, and reason for use. Chapters 00:54 Introduction to Cannabis Research and Personal Journey 04:04 Exploring Cannabis and Brain Function 09:14 Adolescent Cannabis Use and Cognitive Effects 12:31 Neuroprotective Effects of Cannabinoids 14:25 Understanding the Endocannabinoid System 16:23 Cannabinoids in Older Adults 19:03 Cannabis Use in Relation to Other Medications 20:01 Cannabis and Exercise: Subjective Experiences 24:24 Future Research Directions and Closing Thoughts

    Cannabis, Brain, and Aging with Kent Hutchison PhD

  6. May 1

    Cannabis Smoke & Cardiovascular Health with Matthew Springer, PhD

    Summary In this episode of High5 with Dr. Igor Grant, Dr. Matt Springer explains how inhaling smoke from combusted products such as tobacco and cannabis, as well as inhaling aerosol from e-cigarettes and cannabis vaping devices, may impair endothelial function, an early marker of cardiovascular risk. Drawing on rodent and human studies, he reports that chronic tobacco smokers, e-cigarette users, and cannabis smokers all show reduced vascular function. He also discusses evidence that chronic THC edible users may have impaired vascular function through a different mechanism than inhaled products. A central message is that “cannabis use” is too imprecise a term, because smoking cannabis and ingesting THC are very different exposures. His public health takeaway is simple: be aware of cardiovascular risks, practice moderation, and avoid exposing others to secondhand smoke. Key Topics Endothelial function and its role in cardiovascular healthEffects of tobacco, cannabis, and e-cigarette smoke on blood vesselsMechanisms of smoke-induced vascular impairmentDifferences between inhaled and ingested cannabis effectsPublic health implications of secondhand smoke exposure Chapters 00:00 Preview 01:24 Dr. Springer's Background 03:43 Exploring Cardiovascular Effects of Cannabis 03:43 Personal Anecdote - Paul McCartney Concert 05:13 Understanding Endothelial Function 09:33 The Role of Endothelial Cells in Cardiovascular Health 09:58 Understanding Vascular Health and Flow Mediated Dilation 12:03 Translating Rodent Studies to Human Health 14:20 The Impact of Cannabis and Tobacco Smoke on Vascular Function 16:53 Chronic Use: Comparing Cannabis, Tobacco, and E-Cigarettes 20:15 The Science Behind Smoke and Its Effects 24:48 Distinguishing Cannabis Use from Smoking Effects 29:08 Moderation and Public Health Messaging 34:31 Secondhand Smoke: Risks and Recommendations

    Cannabis Smoke & Cardiovascular Health with Matthew Springer, PhD

  7. Apr 1

    Cannabis for Migraine Headache with Nat Schuster, MD

    Summary: In this episode, Nathaniel Schuster, MD, Professor and Medical Director of the Center for Pain Management at UC San Diego Health, explores the potential role of cannabinoid therapy in migraine care. Join us as Dr. Schuster shares insights into the benefits, limitations, and practical considerations of this approach, and discusses his latest research on vaporized cannabis for acute migraine treatment, including clinical trial findings and future directions. Key Topics: Overview of the first placebo-controlled trial of vaporized cannabis for migraineThe scientific rationale behind using THC and CBD in migraine treatmentStudy design: crossover methodology, dosages, and use of research-grade cannabisPrimary and secondary outcomes: pain relief, pain freedom, and bothersome symptomsSurprising findings on nausea, photophobia, and sound sensitivity improvementsSide effects, safety profile, and optimal dosing strategiesPractical considerations: vaporized vs. oral formulations and patient preferencesRecommendations for patients with refractory migraines considering cannabinoid therapyFuture research directions: preventive treatments and guidelines incorporation Timestamps: 00:03 - Introduction to Cannabis Study 00:56 - Welcome Dr. Nathaniel Schuster 01:41 - Dr. Schuster's Background 02:29 - Understanding Migraine 03:18 - Current Migraine Treatments 04:14 - Defining Migraine 05:11 - Genetic Factors in Migraine 06:01 - Cannabis as a Treatment Option 07:54 - Study Hypothesis and Design 10:45 - Study Design Details 13:41 - Crossover Study Explanation 16:51 - Study Findings 20:36 - Most Bothersome Symptom Freedom 23:01 - Side Effects and Safety 26:40 - Participant Demographics 28:34 - Future Research Directions 30:00 - Practical Considerations 32:09 - Advice for Migraine Patients 33:50 - Safety Considerations 34:03 - Closing Remarks ⁠Read Dr. Schusters's study. Bio: Dr. Nathaniel Schuster is a pain and headache neurologist and is Professor and Medical Director at the UC San Diego Center for Pain Management. He has served as Treasurer of the American Academy of Pain Medicine, Senior Vice President of the World Headache Society, and as Vice Chair of the Guidelines Committee for the International Pain and Spine Intervention Society. He has received the American Academy of Pain Medicine’s Rollin “Mac” Gallagher Award, the American Academy of Pain Medicine’s Distinguished Service Award, the American Headache Society’s Harold G. Wolff Award, the International Pain and Spine Intervention Society’s Outstanding Volunteer Award, and the Migraine Research Foundation’s Impact Award. He is section editor for the Neuropathic Pain section for the journal Pain Medicine. He graduated from University of Michigan Medical School and completed a neurology residency at UCLA, headache fellowship at Montefiore Headache Center, and pain fellowship at Massachusetts General Hospital. He conducted the first placebo-controlled trial of cannabinoids for acute migraine and his ongoing research includes clinical trials studying treatments for migraine and neuropathic pain.

    Cannabis for Migraine Headache with Nat Schuster, MD

  8. Mar 1

    Terpenes in Cannabis: Are they therapeutic? with Catherine Cahill, MD

    In this episode, Catherine M. Cahill, PhD, Professor of Psychiatry at the UCLA Brain Research Institute, delves into the fascinating world of terpenes—natural aromatic compounds found in cannabis and other plants—and their potential therapeutic effects, especially for pain relief. Join us as Dr. Cahill shares her expertise on the mechanisms, research findings, and regulatory status of these promising molecules.es.   Key Topics Covered: The basic chemistry and role of terpenes andterpenoids in plantsHow terpenes differ from cannabinoids like THCand CBDThe most studied terpenes in pain relief:myrcene and beta-caryophyllenePreclinical evidence for terpene analgesiceffects in nerve and inflammatory painThe endogenous cannabinoid system and howterpenes may modulate itEvidence for sex differences in terpene responseand receptor distributionThe regulatory status of terpenes as foodadditives and their availabilityEmerging research on terpene interactions withother cannabinoidsPotential for opioid-sparing effects andreducing adverse outcomes  Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to cannabisterpenes and their therapeutic promise 02:30 - Basic chemistry: what areterpenes and terpenoids? 06:00 - The role of terpenes inattracting pollinators and plant defense 09:30 - Key terpenes studied:myrcene and beta-caryophyllene 13:00 - How terpenes influence theendogenous cannabinoid system 15:45 - Differences betweenterpenes and cannabinoids 17:30 - Conditions potentiallybenefitting from terpene treatment and current research 21:00 - Preclinical findings:analgesic effects in nerve and inflammatory pain models 26:00 - Modulation of emotionalaspects of pain through the cannabinoid system 27:30 - The entourage effect: doterpenes enhance THC and CBD efficacy? 31:00 - Regulatory status andsafety of terpenes 34:00 - Sex differences andhormonal influences on terpene receptor expression 36:00 - Future directions:combination therapies and opioid-sparing potentials 38:00 - Final thoughts

    Terpenes in Cannabis: Are they therapeutic? with Catherine Cahill, MD
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Welcome to High5 with Dr. Igor Grant, Distinguished Professor of Psychiatry and Director of the Center for Medicinal Cannabis Research (CMCR) at UC San Diego. Each month, we’ll take you on a fascinating journey into the evolving world of medicinal cannabis. From groundbreaking research to candid conversations with top scientists and clinicians across the globe. In each episode, Dr. Grant poses five thought-provoking questions to his guest, uncovering their personal journey and unique contributions to the field of medicinal cannabis.

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