Evaluating the effects of medical cannabis on pain, sleep, anxiety, depression, and epilepsy
Official title: MC-RWE : Real World Evidence in Patient-Reported Outcomes for Medical Cannabis: A Prospective Observational Study
Run by University Health Network, Toronto · NCT04526093 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 19 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 1000 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Health Network, Toronto Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | July 15, 2020 |
| Main results expected | March 2028 |
| Study ends | July 2028 |
| Registry record updated | July 22, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04526093 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are currently using illicit drugs or recreational cannabis will not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
-
Toronto General Hospital, UHN
Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Hance Clarke, MD, PhD — Toronto General Hospital, UHN
- Study coordinator: Sonal Thaker
- Email: sonalben.thaker@uhn.ca
- Phone: 416-340-4800 X 4251
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.