Evaluating the effects of medical cannabis on pain, sleep, anxiety, depression, and epilepsy

MC-RWE : Real World Evidence in Patient-Reported Outcomes for Medical Cannabis: A Prospective Observational Study

Observational University Health Network, Toronto · NCT04526093

This study is testing how well medical cannabis helps people with pain, sleep issues, anxiety, depression, and epilepsy feel better over time.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment1000 (estimated)
Ages19 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity Health Network, Toronto Academic / other
Locations1 site (Toronto, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT04526093 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to assess the effectiveness of medical cannabis in patients authorized to use it for conditions such as pain, epilepsy, sleep disorders, and anxiety/depression. Participants will complete validated self-assessment scales to report their outcomes over time. The study addresses the need for long-term data on the benefits and safety of medical cannabis, particularly given the variability in strains and treatment regimens available to patients. By focusing on real-world evidence, the study seeks to provide insights into the therapeutic potential of medical cannabis in managing chronic conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 19 and older who have a medical authorization for cannabis use and are experiencing pain, epilepsy, sleep issues, or anxiety/depression.

Not a fit: Patients who are currently using illicit drugs or recreational cannabis will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide valuable insights into the long-term effectiveness of medical cannabis for managing chronic conditions, potentially improving treatment options for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While there is growing evidence supporting the use of medical cannabis for various conditions, this study aims to fill a gap in long-term outcome data, making it a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Subjects (≥19 years of age) who are MC-naïve or -experienced with a medical authorization for MC provided by a prescribing health care practitioner and who have provided informed consent
* Primary therapeutic indications for MC use: pain, epilepsy, sleep, and/or anxiety/depression.
* Subjects agree to use verified products and refrain from using any other cannabis products, either medical or recreational, during the duration of the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Concomitant use of illicit drugs
* Concomitant use of recreational cannabis

Where this trial is running

Toronto, Ontario

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions PainSleepAnxietyDepressionEpilepsy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.