Cannabinoids for Osteoarthritis Pain Effectiveness Trial
Canada100 participantsStarted 2026-01-29
Plain-language summary
This study aims to investigate whether oral cannabis extracts can effectively manage pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA), a common joint condition affecting one in seven Canadians. Current OA treatments often have limited effectiveness and may cause side effects. As a result, many individuals with OA turn to medical cannabis for pain relief, despite limited scientific evidence supporting its efficacy.
The goal of this study is to assess the feasibility of a larger trial evaluating the effects of two cannabis compounds-CBD and THC-compared to a placebo (a look-alike substance containing no active drug) on pain interference in patients with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis.
Participants will:
* Take either CBD, THC, or a placebo capsule daily for 8 weeks
* Complete follow-ups remotely, with no in-person clinic visits required
* Maintain a diary tracking their study drug usage and any additional pain medications
Who can participate
Age range40 Years – 80 Years
SexALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion criteria
✓. Age 40-80 years
✓. Diagnosed with hip and/or knee osteoarthritis as per the American College of Rheumatology criteria
✓. Experiencing moderate to severe pain interference as indicated by a PROMIS-PI SF-6a T-score ≥ 60
✓. Have not initiated any new analgesics or osteoarthritis treatments in the previous 4 weeks
✓. Able to self-report, understand and read English or French
Exclusion criteria
✕. Hip or knee surgery planned in the coming 4 months,
✕. Injection into the affected joint(s) within the past 3 months (e.g., cortisone, plasma-rich protein, etc.),
✕. Planned injection into the affected joint(s) during trial period,