The Effects of Cannabis on Male Reproductive Functions

The purpose of this study is to understand the direct effects of cannabis on male reproductive functions. The investigators plan to conduct a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial to examine both the chronic and acute effects of cannabis use on male reproductive functions. Specifically, the investigators will examine the dose-dependent effects of acute cannabis use on male reproductive parameters, including sperm counts, motility, morphology, and testosterone levels, as well as sperm epimutations. Participants \[cannabis users will be randomly assigned to 1) non-vaping, 2) placebo (vaping without cannabis), and 2 doses of cannabis, 3) 20 and 4) 40mg of THC in cannabis flower obtained from the NIDA drug supply\], and 5) non-cannabis users (naïve control, no cannabis or placebo exposure). Participants will provide surveys (cannabis use and sexual functioning and satisfaction etc.), peripheral blood, and semen.

Inclusion Criteria: * Regular cannabis users (21\~64 years-old men) who have used cannabis at least once a week for at least once a year or who have never used cannabis. * Willingness to abstain from using cannabis on the day of the testing session (minimum 5 hours abstinence). Exclusion Criteria: * Women * Adult men, 65 or older, and men under the age of 21 * Serious psychiatric conditions (e.g. psychosis, bipolar I and panic disorder) * Family history of psychosis * Chronic medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, diabetes) * History of adverse experiences with cannabis (e.g., anxiety and panic attacks) * Use of other illicit drugs (not cannabis) in the past 2 months * Heavy alcohol use (\>4 drinks, \>4 times/week) * Smoking/nicotine use * Infrequent cannabis use (less than once a week for only cannabis users) * BMI over 34 * Current use of corticosteroids and blood thinners