Investigating how cannabis helps relieve pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to explore the brain mechanisms involved in pain relief from vaporized cannabis. Participants will undergo two sessions where they will self-administer a medium dose of cannabis or a placebo while experiencing controlled heat stimulation. The study will utilize behavioral assessments and advanced fMRI techniques to measure cerebral blood flow and pain response. By understanding the neural pathways activated by cannabis, the research seeks to validate its efficacy as a pain management therapy.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Between 21-65 years old
* Currently 30 days cannabis free
* Lower back pain for three months or more
* Are not taking opioids
* If female and of a child bearing potential age, are not pregnant or nursing mothers
* Do not have mental or neurological conditions inhibiting sensory/motor functions
* Do not have a lifetime history of dependence on cannabis
* Do not have a lifetime history of DSM-IV schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, or psychosis
* Prior THC-containing cannabis experience within the past two years
* Agrees not to use cannabis outside of the study during participation in the study
* Agrees not to use opioids or barbiturates during participation in the study
* Agrees not to drive a motor vehicle within 4 hours following last use of inhaled cannabis during participation in the study

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active pulmonary disease
* Allergy or past adverse effects or negative past experiences from cannabis
* Positive urine drug test for THC, barbiturates, opioids, oxycodone, or methadone
* Any significant illness, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, renal and liver disease.
* Any current or history of an immunocompromising disease or condition (such as lupus, psoriasis, multiple sclerosis, etc.)
* Any current or history of neurologic conditions, including Parkinson disease, dementia, cognitive impairment, history of seizure disorder, and history of traumatic brain injury/head injury
* Any current major psychiatric illness, such as bipolar disorder, major depression, psychosis, substance use disorder, or schizophrenia
* Any current or history of suicidal ideation or attempt
* Overt sensitivity to thermal stimulation
* Resting blood pressure \> 140/90
* Resting heart rate \> 100 beats/minute
* Prisoner
* Institutionalized
* Claustrophobia
* MRI contraindications
* Participation in any new (within 2 weeks prior or any time after enrollment) pain management procedures during the study period
* Known history of vasovagal fainting, syncope, or severe adverse reactions associated with blood draws or needle procedures

Where it's running

• Center for Functional MRI - W.M.Keck Building
  La Jolla, California, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Madelynn Meredith, BS
• Email: mameredith@health.ucsd.edu
• Phone: 619-431-1850

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.