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Pain Research: Innovative Strategies With Marijuana

An Observational Study of the Effects of Edible Cannabis and Its Constituent Cannabinoids on Pain, Inflammation, and Cognition

Status
Completed
Phases
Unknown
Study type
Observational
Source
ClinicalTrials.gov
Registry ID
NCT03522324
Acronym
PRISM
Enrollment
268
Registered
2018-05-11
Start date
2018-06-01
Completion date
2023-10-12
Last updated
2025-08-27

For informational purposes only — not medical advice. Sourced from public registries and may not reflect the latest updates. Terms

Conditions

Cannabis Use, Chronic Low Back Pain, Chronic Pain

Keywords

Cannabis, Pain, Cytokines, Inflammation, Cognition

Brief summary

This study tests the effects of cannabinoid levels in blood on pain relief, inflammation, and cognitive dysfunction in chronic pain patients who choose to use edible cannabis. Over a two-week period, participants use an edible product of their choice. Blood levels of 9-delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) will be measured before, during, and after the two-week exposure period to determine whether there are associations with pain, inflammation, sleep, physical activity, anxiety/depression, and cognitive dysfunction. After the two-week self-administration period, participants will be followed for six months to collect self-report data on cannabis use, pain levels, sleep quality, and mental health symptoms.

Detailed description

The National Center for Health Statistics reports that approximately 76 million Americans suffer from chronic pain, affecting the lives of more Americans than cancer, diabetes, and heart disease combined. Perhaps because of its ubiquity and the challenge to its treatment, relief from chronic pain is by far the most commonly cited condition by patients for use of marijuana, with 87%-94% of medical marijuana users reporting using for relief of a pain condition. Although the mechanisms are still unclear, marijuana and its constituent cannabinoids, including 9-delta-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), are thought to be involved in reducing pain and associated inflammation. However, THC is also associated with harm in the form of cognitive dysfunction. Synergistic interactions of multiple cannabinoids are believed to produce different effects on both pain relief and cognitive function as compared to THC alone. For example, cannabidiol (CBD) is another primary cannabinoid that may work synergistically with THC in a multi-target analgesic approach. This study examines the effects of cannabinoids in edible form on pain relief, inflammation, and cognitive dysfunction in chronic pain patients who choose to use marijuana in the context of a short-term (2 weeks), patient-oriented, observational design and a mobile pharmacology and phlebotomy lab.

Interventions

DRUGCannabis Edible

Self-Directed Use (ad-libitum)

Sponsors

University of Colorado, Denver
CollaboratorOTHER
Colorado State University
CollaboratorOTHER
University of Colorado, Boulder
Lead SponsorOTHER

Study design

Observational model
COHORT
Time perspective
PROSPECTIVE

Eligibility

Sex/Gender
ALL
Age
21 Years to 70 Years
Healthy volunteers
No

Inclusion criteria

* Intent to initiate use of marijuana to treat chronic pain * At least one episode of lifetime marijuana use, but infrequent marijuana use for prior six months * Self-reported non-specific chronic low back pain for at least three months * Health eligibility approved by study physician * At least mild to moderate pain intensity OR pain interferes with important life functions

Exclusion criteria

* Other drug use (cocaine, methamphetamine, etc.) in the past 3 days and/or actively seeking or in treatment for any substance use disorder * Use of marijuana to treat pain at any time in lives * Current use of psychotropic medications (other than SSRIs and ADHD meds), or use of antivirals, steroids, or regular use of maximal doses of NSAIDS * A daily tobacco user * Are currently pregnant or trying to become pregnant * Acute illness (other than chronic pain) or any immune-related disease (e.g., HIV)

Design outcomes

Primary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Pain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)Change over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use), Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration) using the total RMDQ score (0-24).The Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire assesses self-rated physical disability caused by low back pain. Scores range from 0 to 24, with higher scores indicating more pain interference.
Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)Change over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use), Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration).Subjective report of cognitive function using the Perceived Cognitive Impairments subscale of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog). Possible scores range from 0-80 where higher scores are associated with higher levels of perceived impairment.
Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)Change over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use), Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration).Co-outcomes testing cognitive impairment in the domains of immediate and delayed recall (ISLT) and attention and inhibitory control (FICA). Cognitive outcomes are measured in standard scores (e.g. Range of \>70 to \>140 (Mean of 100 and SD of 15) with higher scores indicating better performance) and can be averaged to reflect a Standard score of overall cognitive function.
Inflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesChange over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use) and Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration).Tests levels of recent inflammation (panel of inflammatory markers) before and after cannabis use. Higher numbers indicate higher levels of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. Results are in pg/mL and are separated by the three cytokines: IL-1b, IL-6, and IL-10.

Secondary

MeasureTime frameDescription
Depression and StressChange over 2 weeksThe DASS21 is a 21-item scale that measures self-reported change in anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms. Participants are asked to use 4-point severity/frequency scales (higher values indicate greater severity) to rate the extent to which they have experienced each state. For this aim, the Depression and Stress subscales were used. Depression subscale score range 0-21 Normal (0 to 4), Mild (5 to 6), Moderate, (7 to 10), Severe (11 to 13), Extremely Severe (14 and above) Stress subscale score range 0-33 Normal (0 to 14), Mild (15 to 18), Moderate, (19 to 25), Severe (26 to 33)
Acute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).2 WeeksCo-outcomes testing cognitive impairment after acute use of cannabis in the domains of immediate and delayed recall (ISLT) and and attention and inhibitory control (FICA). Cognitive outcomes are measured in standard scores (e.g. Range of \<70 to \>140 (Mean of 100 and SD of 15) with higher scores indicating better performance) and can be averaged to reflect a Standard score of overall cognitive function.
Patient Global Impression of Change: Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC).Change over 2 week primary exposure period.Patient Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC) measures self-reported change on a 1-7 scale (i.e. from 1 (very much worse) to 7 (very much improved) in pain. Changes in this measure will be tested in relation to THC and CBD blood levels. Scale possible score range 1-7, with higher scores indicating the largest amount of possible change. Importantly, it is a subjective self-assessment of change and is only measured at the 2 week timepoint.
Motor FunctionChange over 2 weeksMotor control assessed via dynamic sway and proprioception. Motor outcomes were aggregated to reflect a Z-score of overall motor function. Scores reported below are sum of Motor Battery Balance z-scores (Eyes Open, Eyes Closed, and Head Back). Higher scores correspond to worse balance- there is not a maximum score.
Pain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.Change over 2 weeksTest effects of cannabinoids on pain using the NIH Pain intensity scale for current pain (on a scale from 0-10 with 10 being the worst).
Health & WellbeingChange over 2 weeksSelf-report measure across primary domains of diet, assessment of sleep quality, and health-related well-being. Each domain was assessed with the following single items: Diet: In general, how healthy is your overall diet? Would you say (response options 0- excellent; 1- very good; 2- good; 3- fair; 4- poor) Sleep Quality: During the past 2 weeks, how would you rate your sleep quality overall? (response options 0- very good; 1- fairly good; 2- fairly bad; 3- very bad) Health Related Wellbeing: In general, how would you describe your health? (response options 0- excellent; 1- very good; 2- good; 3- fair; 4- poor)
Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)Change over 4 weeksThe Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI) is a self-report assessment of sleep quality.9 self-reported items belongs to one of seven subcategories: subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, habitual sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, use of sleeping medication, and daytime dysfunction. Scores for each question range from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating more acute sleep disturbances (Scores range from 0 to 21 overall, with scores greater than 5 suggesting significant sleep difficulties).

Other

MeasureTime frameDescription
Exploratory: Daily Follow-up Messages2 weeks (daily)Brief self-report from participants on pain and sleep in the past 24 hours. These are 1-item novel questions in a daily, text based survey. Pain and sleep are on a scale of 1-10, with higher numbers being more pain or better sleep. Score is an average rating over 14 days.
Physical Activity/Exercise2 weeksPhysical activity via subjective self-report data using the Stanford Leisure-Time Activity Categorical item with 6 item responses (L-CAT; 1-6). Scores are reported as a mean between 1 and 6, larger numbers correspond to higher levels of activity.
Objective Physical Activity/Exercise2 weeksPhysical activity via objective daily data on wearable watch as measured by average minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA).
Exploratory: Monthly Follow-up Surveys6 months (monthly)Self-report from participants on pain levels (0-10 with 10 being worst pain), sleep quality (0-10 with 10 being best sleep), perceived cognitive ability (0 - 27 with 27 being the best), perceived cognitive impairments (0-72 with 72 being the worst), and general health (0-4 with 4 being best). Scores are reported as average scores reported once a month over six months.

Countries

United States

Participant flow

Pre-assignment details

Note: 268 participants were consented for the study. Among those, 253 submitted photos of their experimental product and were thus assigned to product groups. It is not possible to group the 15 participants lost to attrition at that point in the study flow.

Participants by arm

ArmCount
THC Group
Participants used THC dominant products
36
CBD Group
Participants used CBD dominant products
96
THC+CBD Group
Participants used products with roughly equivalent proportions of THC and CBD
117
Total249

Baseline characteristics

CharacteristicTHC GroupCBD GroupTHC+CBD GroupTotal
Age, Continuous36.92 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 15.02
50.18 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 14.49
46.06 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 16.38
46.3 years
STANDARD_DEVIATION 16.1
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Hispanic or Latino
3 Participants3 Participants11 Participants17 Participants
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Not Hispanic or Latino
33 Participants92 Participants105 Participants230 Participants
Ethnicity (NIH/OMB)
Unknown or Not Reported
0 Participants1 Participants1 Participants2 Participants
Pain Intensity3.2 units on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0.93
3.37 units on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0.92
3.45 units on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0.97
3.4 units on a scale
STANDARD_DEVIATION 0.94
Region of Enrollment
United States
36 participants96 participants117 participants249 participants
Sex/Gender, Customized
Female
15 Participants58 Participants68 Participants141 Participants
Sex/Gender, Customized
Male
20 Participants37 Participants47 Participants104 Participants
Sex/Gender, Customized
Transgender/non-binary
1 Participants1 Participants2 Participants4 Participants

Adverse events

Event typeEG000
affected / at risk
EG001
affected / at risk
EG002
affected / at risk
deaths
Total, all-cause mortality
0 / 360 / 950 / 117
other
Total, other adverse events
0 / 360 / 950 / 117
serious
Total, serious adverse events
0 / 360 / 950 / 117

Outcome results

Primary

Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)

Co-outcomes testing cognitive impairment in the domains of immediate and delayed recall (ISLT) and attention and inhibitory control (FICA). Cognitive outcomes are measured in standard scores (e.g. Range of \>70 to \>140 (Mean of 100 and SD of 15) with higher scores indicating better performance) and can be averaged to reflect a Standard score of overall cognitive function.

Time frame: Change over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use), Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)Baseline Flanker Scores101.806 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.528
THC GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)2 Week Flanker Scores102.667 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.963
THC GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)Baseline ISLT Scores99.886 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 14.652
THC GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)2 Week ISLT Scores99.756 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 16.278
CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)2 Week ISLT Scores98.325 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 13.744
CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)Baseline Flanker Scores98.606 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.355
CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)Baseline ISLT Scores98.499 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 12.514
CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)2 Week Flanker Scores100.207 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.657
THC+CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)2 Week ISLT Scores100.321 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 16.206
THC+CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)2 Week Flanker Scores101.063 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.326
THC+CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)Baseline ISLT Scores102.37 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 16.359
THC+CBD GroupFlanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) & International Shopping List Task (ISLT)Baseline Flanker Scores99.974 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.074
Primary

Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)

Subjective report of cognitive function using the Perceived Cognitive Impairments subscale of the Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog). Possible scores range from 0-80 where higher scores are associated with higher levels of perceived impairment.

Time frame: Change over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use), Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupFunctional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)Baseline Perceived Impairments Rating15.528 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.388
THC GroupFunctional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)2 Week Perceived Impairments Rating12.52 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 9.913
CBD GroupFunctional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)Baseline Perceived Impairments Rating14.14 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.834
CBD GroupFunctional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)2 Week Perceived Impairments Rating14.037 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 12.77
THC+CBD GroupFunctional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)Baseline Perceived Impairments Rating13.978 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 11.226
THC+CBD GroupFunctional Assessment of Cancer Therapy Cognitive Scale (FACT-Cog)2 Week Perceived Impairments Rating12.743 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 10.155
Primary

Inflammation: Circulating Levels of Cytokines

Tests levels of recent inflammation (panel of inflammatory markers) before and after cannabis use. Higher numbers indicate higher levels of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines. Results are in pg/mL and are separated by the three cytokines: IL-1b, IL-6, and IL-10.

Time frame: Change over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use) and Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-1b blood levels6.685 pg/mLStandard Deviation 9.261
THC GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-1b Blood Levels at 2 Weeks6.816 pg/mLStandard Deviation 9.138
THC GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-6 Blood Levels3.071 pg/mLStandard Deviation 2.769
THC GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-6 Blood Levels at 2 Weeks3.101 pg/mLStandard Deviation 3.091
THC GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-10 Blood Levels6.183 pg/mLStandard Deviation 8.65
THC GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-10 Blood Levels at 2 Weeks6.184 pg/mLStandard Deviation 8.546
CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-10 Blood Levels at 2 Weeks7.007 pg/mLStandard Deviation 12.337
CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-1b blood levels8.422 pg/mLStandard Deviation 13.766
CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-6 Blood Levels at 2 Weeks3.639 pg/mLStandard Deviation 4.542
CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-10 Blood Levels7.362 pg/mLStandard Deviation 12.256
CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-1b Blood Levels at 2 Weeks8.031 pg/mLStandard Deviation 13.274
CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-6 Blood Levels3.994 pg/mLStandard Deviation 4.438
THC+CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-1b Blood Levels at 2 Weeks8.014 pg/mLStandard Deviation 11.831
THC+CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-6 Blood Levels3.538 pg/mLStandard Deviation 3.538
THC+CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-10 Blood Levels at 2 Weeks8.563 pg/mLStandard Deviation 13.842
THC+CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesIL-6 Blood Levels at 2 Weeks3.168 pg/mLStandard Deviation 2.979
THC+CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-1b blood levels7.829 pg/mLStandard Deviation 11.214
THC+CBD GroupInflammation: Circulating Levels of CytokinesBaseline IL-10 Blood Levels8.565 pg/mLStandard Deviation 13.513
Primary

Pain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)

The Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire assesses self-rated physical disability caused by low back pain. Scores range from 0 to 24, with higher scores indicating more pain interference.

Time frame: Change over two time points over 2 weeks: Baseline (before 2 weeks of edible use), Pre-Administration (after 2 weeks of use and before acute administration) using the total RMDQ score (0-24).

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupPain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)Baseline Pain Interference8.028 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.582
THC GroupPain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)Pain Interference at 2 Weeks6.194 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 4.407
CBD GroupPain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)Baseline Pain Interference9.635 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 4.98
CBD GroupPain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)Pain Interference at 2 Weeks8.031 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 5.428
THC+CBD GroupPain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)Baseline Pain Interference9.034 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 4.495
THC+CBD GroupPain Interference: Roland Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ)Pain Interference at 2 Weeks7.419 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 4.796
Secondary

Acute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).

Co-outcomes testing cognitive impairment after acute use of cannabis in the domains of immediate and delayed recall (ISLT) and and attention and inhibitory control (FICA). Cognitive outcomes are measured in standard scores (e.g. Range of \<70 to \>140 (Mean of 100 and SD of 15) with higher scores indicating better performance) and can be averaged to reflect a Standard score of overall cognitive function.

Time frame: 2 Weeks

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupAcute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).Baseline Sum Cognitive Score100.619 standard scoreStandard Deviation 8.115
THC GroupAcute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).2 Week Sum Cognitive Score101.675 standard scoreStandard Deviation 9.226
CBD GroupAcute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).Baseline Sum Cognitive Score98.281 standard scoreStandard Deviation 7.694
CBD GroupAcute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).2 Week Sum Cognitive Score99.615 standard scoreStandard Deviation 8.166
THC+CBD GroupAcute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).Baseline Sum Cognitive Score100.904 standard scoreStandard Deviation 10.296
THC+CBD GroupAcute Cognitive Impairment: Flanker Inhibitory Control Attention Task (FICA) and International Shopping List Task (ISLT).2 Week Sum Cognitive Score100.91 standard scoreStandard Deviation 9.944
Secondary

Depression and Stress

The DASS21 is a 21-item scale that measures self-reported change in anxiety, depression, and stress symptoms. Participants are asked to use 4-point severity/frequency scales (higher values indicate greater severity) to rate the extent to which they have experienced each state. For this aim, the Depression and Stress subscales were used. Depression subscale score range 0-21 Normal (0 to 4), Mild (5 to 6), Moderate, (7 to 10), Severe (11 to 13), Extremely Severe (14 and above) Stress subscale score range 0-33 Normal (0 to 14), Mild (15 to 18), Moderate, (19 to 25), Severe (26 to 33)

Time frame: Change over 2 weeks

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupDepression and StressBaseline Depression score7.111 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.369
THC GroupDepression and Stress2 Week Stress Score8.545 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.023
THC GroupDepression and StressBaseline Stress Score9.667 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.716
THC GroupDepression and Stress2 Week Depression Score5.939 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.132
CBD GroupDepression and Stress2 Week Depression Score5.532 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.508
CBD GroupDepression and StressBaseline Stress Score9.417 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.135
CBD GroupDepression and Stress2 Week Stress Score8.596 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.042
CBD GroupDepression and StressBaseline Depression score6.188 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.41
THC+CBD GroupDepression and Stress2 Week Stress Score8.198 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.959
THC+CBD GroupDepression and StressBaseline Depression score6.872 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 8.197
THC+CBD GroupDepression and StressBaseline Stress Score10.068 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.991
THC+CBD GroupDepression and Stress2 Week Depression Score5.856 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.364
Secondary

Health & Wellbeing

Self-report measure across primary domains of diet, assessment of sleep quality, and health-related well-being. Each domain was assessed with the following single items: Diet: In general, how healthy is your overall diet? Would you say (response options 0- excellent; 1- very good; 2- good; 3- fair; 4- poor) Sleep Quality: During the past 2 weeks, how would you rate your sleep quality overall? (response options 0- very good; 1- fairly good; 2- fairly bad; 3- very bad) Health Related Wellbeing: In general, how would you describe your health? (response options 0- excellent; 1- very good; 2- good; 3- fair; 4- poor)

Time frame: Change over 2 weeks

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Health-Related Wellbeing1.44 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.95
THC GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Sleep Quality1.31 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.79
THC GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Self Reported Diet1.58 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.94
THC GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Self Reported Diet1.54 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.9
THC GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Sleep Quality1.00 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.66
THC GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Health-Related Wellbeing1.58 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.84
CBD GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Sleep Quality1.19 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.63
CBD GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Health-Related Wellbeing1.52 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.88
CBD GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Self Reported Diet1.64 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.82
CBD GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Health-Related Wellbeing1.55 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.83
CBD GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Self Reported Diet1.56 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.96
CBD GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Sleep Quality1.27 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.72
THC+CBD GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Health-Related Wellbeing1.49 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.76
THC+CBD GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Sleep Quality1.06 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.61
THC+CBD GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Self Reported Diet1.44 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.92
THC+CBD GroupHealth & Wellbeing2 Week Self Reported Diet1.50 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.96
THC+CBD GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Sleep Quality1.22 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.67
THC+CBD GroupHealth & WellbeingBaseline Health-Related Wellbeing1.39 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.79
Secondary

Motor Function

Motor control assessed via dynamic sway and proprioception. Motor outcomes were aggregated to reflect a Z-score of overall motor function. Scores reported below are sum of Motor Battery Balance z-scores (Eyes Open, Eyes Closed, and Head Back). Higher scores correspond to worse balance- there is not a maximum score.

Time frame: Change over 2 weeks

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupMotor FunctionBaseline z-score0.019 z-scoreStandard Deviation 0.006
THC GroupMotor Function2 Week z-score0.018 z-scoreStandard Deviation 0.006
CBD GroupMotor FunctionBaseline z-score0.023 z-scoreStandard Deviation 0.013
CBD GroupMotor Function2 Week z-score0.023 z-scoreStandard Deviation 0.011
THC+CBD GroupMotor FunctionBaseline z-score0.021 z-scoreStandard Deviation 0.007
THC+CBD GroupMotor Function2 Week z-score0.02 z-scoreStandard Deviation 0.006
Secondary

Pain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.

Test effects of cannabinoids on pain using the NIH Pain intensity scale for current pain (on a scale from 0-10 with 10 being the worst).

Time frame: Change over 2 weeks

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupPain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.Baseline Pain Intensity Rating2.2 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.933
THC GroupPain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.2-Week Pain Intensity Rating3.091 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.792
CBD GroupPain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.Baseline Pain Intensity Rating2.366 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.918
CBD GroupPain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.2-Week Pain Intensity Rating3.204 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.948
THC+CBD GroupPain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.Baseline Pain Intensity Rating2.448 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.972
THC+CBD GroupPain Intensity: Current Pain Using NIH Pain Intensity Scale.2-Week Pain Intensity Rating3.288 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 2.064
Secondary

Patient Global Impression of Change: Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC).

Patient Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC) measures self-reported change on a 1-7 scale (i.e. from 1 (very much worse) to 7 (very much improved) in pain. Changes in this measure will be tested in relation to THC and CBD blood levels. Scale possible score range 1-7, with higher scores indicating the largest amount of possible change. Importantly, it is a subjective self-assessment of change and is only measured at the 2 week timepoint.

Time frame: Change over 2 week primary exposure period.

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupPatient Global Impression of Change: Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC).4.97 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.847
CBD GroupPatient Global Impression of Change: Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC).4.745 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.867
THC+CBD GroupPatient Global Impression of Change: Global Impression of Change Scale (PGIC).4.856 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.862
Secondary

Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)

The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI) is a self-report assessment of sleep quality.9 self-reported items belongs to one of seven subcategories: subjective sleep quality, sleep latency, sleep duration, habitual sleep efficiency, sleep disturbances, use of sleeping medication, and daytime dysfunction. Scores for each question range from 0 to 3, with higher scores indicating more acute sleep disturbances (Scores range from 0 to 21 overall, with scores greater than 5 suggesting significant sleep difficulties).

Time frame: Change over 4 weeks

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupPittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)Baseline PSQI Scores8.22 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.54
THC GroupPittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)4 Week PSQI Scores5.85 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.09
CBD GroupPittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)Baseline PSQI Scores8.39 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.67
CBD GroupPittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)4 Week PSQI Scores7.07 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.74
THC+CBD GroupPittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)Baseline PSQI Scores7.46 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.87
THC+CBD GroupPittsburgh Sleep Quality Assessment (PSQI)4 Week PSQI Scores6.14 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.42
Other Pre-specified

Exploratory: Daily Follow-up Messages

Brief self-report from participants on pain and sleep in the past 24 hours. These are 1-item novel questions in a daily, text based survey. Pain and sleep are on a scale of 1-10, with higher numbers being more pain or better sleep. Score is an average rating over 14 days.

Time frame: 2 weeks (daily)

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupExploratory: Daily Follow-up MessagesPain Rating2.989 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.848
THC GroupExploratory: Daily Follow-up MessagesSleep Rating5.426 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.823
CBD GroupExploratory: Daily Follow-up MessagesSleep Rating4.916 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.657
CBD GroupExploratory: Daily Follow-up MessagesPain Rating3.247 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 2.033
THC+CBD GroupExploratory: Daily Follow-up MessagesPain Rating3.322 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 2.083
THC+CBD GroupExploratory: Daily Follow-up MessagesSleep Rating5.193 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.801
Other Pre-specified

Exploratory: Monthly Follow-up Surveys

Self-report from participants on pain levels (0-10 with 10 being worst pain), sleep quality (0-10 with 10 being best sleep), perceived cognitive ability (0 - 27 with 27 being the best), perceived cognitive impairments (0-72 with 72 being the worst), and general health (0-4 with 4 being best). Scores are reported as average scores reported once a month over six months.

Time frame: 6 months (monthly)

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Pain Rating3.067 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.15
THC GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Perceived Cognitive Impairments5.756 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 10.222
THC GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Perceived Cognitive Ability18.78 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.152
THC GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly General Health Rating1.367 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.893
THC GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Sleep Quality5.763 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.79
CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Perceived Cognitive Impairments4.88 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 7.918
CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Pain Rating2.844 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 2.974
CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Sleep Quality5.837 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.708
CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Perceived Cognitive Ability19.408 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.134
CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly General Health Rating1.606 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.745
THC+CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Sleep Quality5.595 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.626
THC+CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Perceived Cognitive Impairments7.718 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 14.185
THC+CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Pain Rating3.216 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 3.153
THC+CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly General Health Rating1.588 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 0.777
THC+CBD GroupExploratory: Monthly Follow-up SurveysMonthly Perceived Cognitive Ability18.473 units on a scaleStandard Deviation 6.612
Other Pre-specified

Objective Physical Activity/Exercise

Physical activity via objective daily data on wearable watch as measured by average minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA).

Time frame: 2 weeks

ArmMeasureValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupObjective Physical Activity/Exercise1610.258 minutesStandard Deviation 773.122
CBD GroupObjective Physical Activity/Exercise1830.455 minutesStandard Deviation 1103.797
THC+CBD GroupObjective Physical Activity/Exercise1723.745 minutesStandard Deviation 1081.798
Other Pre-specified

Physical Activity/Exercise

Physical activity via subjective self-report data using the Stanford Leisure-Time Activity Categorical item with 6 item responses (L-CAT; 1-6). Scores are reported as a mean between 1 and 6, larger numbers correspond to higher levels of activity.

Time frame: 2 weeks

ArmMeasureGroupValue (MEAN)Dispersion
THC GroupPhysical Activity/ExerciseBaseline Physical Activity3.806 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.39
THC GroupPhysical Activity/Exercise2 Week Physical Activity3.788 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.293
CBD GroupPhysical Activity/ExerciseBaseline Physical Activity3.417 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.202
CBD GroupPhysical Activity/Exercise2 Week Physical Activity3.277 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.177
THC+CBD GroupPhysical Activity/ExerciseBaseline Physical Activity3.573 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.328
THC+CBD GroupPhysical Activity/Exercise2 Week Physical Activity3.279 score on a scaleStandard Deviation 1.097

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · Data processed: Jul 23, 2026