Knee Osteoarthritis Research Study

Researchers at the University of Michigan are conducting a study looking at the pain-relieving effects of active components in cannabis among people with knee osteoarthritis.

Fast Facts

Diagnosed with Knee Osteoarthritis

Not Planning to Have Knee Replacement Surgery

Compensation Provided

Conducted in Ann Arbor, MI

Study Background

Cannabinoid Interactions with Central and Peripheral Pain Mechanisms in Osteoarthritis of the Knee

We know that knee OA is painful and reduces quality of life. Our research team is dedicated to helping individuals lead more comfortable and fulfilling lives by managing pain and other symptoms that come with knee OA.

In this research study, we want to examine whether cannabinoids (CBD and THC) can help with knee pain related to OA. Your participation may help healthcare providers better care for knee osteoarthritis patients in the future. Check your eligibility today!

Study Background

Cannabinoid Interactions with Central and Peripheral Pain Mechanisms in Osteoarthritis of the Knee

We know that knee OA is painful and reduces quality of life. Our research team is dedicated to helping patients lead more comfortable and fulfilling lives by managing pain and other symptoms that come with knee OA.

In this research study, we want to examine whether cannabinoids (CBD and THC) can help with knee pain related to OA. Your participation may help healthcare providers better care for knee osteoarthritis patients in the future. Check your eligibility today!

Additional Information

The goal of this study is to better understand how daily treatment with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), cannabidiol (CBD), or the combination of CBD+THC affects knee osteoarthritis pain and other related symptoms.

You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis
  • Ages 21-75
  • Willing to participate in a drug intervention trial
  • Have experienced chronic knee pain (moderate to severe) for equal or greater than 6 months
  • Vision is normal or correctable with corrective lenses, glasses, or contacts
  • Willing to not take pain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for 12 hours
  • Willing to not drink alcohol and use nicotine before sensory testing and neuroimaging
  • Willing to avoid physical activity or exercise that would cause significant muscle and/or joint soreness for 48 hours prior to testing
  • Willing to avoid grapefruit juice or food products for the duration of the study (due to potential interactions with the study drug)
  • Able to maintain a stable treatment regimen for chronic knee OA pain during the clinical trial (e.g., not initiating a new course of physical therapy)
  • Willing to abstain from any additional pain medications or stable chronic daily use of additional pain medications (excluding opioids)

 

Exclusion Criteria:

  • Any metal in the body that may disrupt an MRI scan
  • Have had or are planning to have knee replacement surgery
  • Have used cannabis or CBD in the past month
  • Pregnant or nursing

Participation involves 7 in-person visits and will last 18 weeks.

First, potential participants will complete a screening visit, including blood and urine tests, medical history, measuring vitals, demographic information, and a questionnaire about pain.

If eligible, participants will be randomly assigned to one of four different treatment groups that will receive an investigational study drug.

The study visits will include measuring vitals, blood and urine collection, questionnaires, sensory testing, and two MRI brain scans.

In addition, participants have the option to wear an activity watch for two weeks and complete a daily sleep/activity diary.

As a participant, you can receive up to $695 for your time and effort.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.