Brain Mechanisms Supporting Cannabis-induced Pain Relief
Eligible age
21–65 yrs
Accepts
All genders
Locations
1 state
Healthy volunteers
Yes
See if you qualify for this study
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About this study
Chronic low back pain is a common and disabling condition that affects millions of people in the United States. Many people with chronic low back pain do not get enough relief from current treatments. Cannabis may help reduce pain, but researchers do not fully understand how it affects the brain in people with chronic pain. The purpose of this study is to examine how inhaled cannabis changes brain activity and reduces pain in people with chronic low back pain. Results from this study may help researchers better understand how cannabis works for pain and support the development of improved pain treatments.
Sponsor: University of California, San Diego
You may qualify if…
- ✓ 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
You may not qualify if…
- ✕ 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
Where it's recruiting
La Jolla
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT04982965 · last updated 2026-06-03