Effect of Cannabis Extract on Acute Radicular Pain and on Analgesic Requirement

Launched by HADASSAH MEDICAL ORGANIZATION · Mar 24, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of cannabis oil on people experiencing acute radicular back pain, which is a type of pain that radiates along a nerve due to irritation or injury. The researchers want to see if a combination of two compounds found in cannabis—THC (the compound that can cause a "high") and CBD (which does not)—can help reduce pain and lower the need for other pain medications. While there is some evidence suggesting cannabis may be helpful for acute pain, the results from previous studies have been mixed. This trial aims to provide clearer information on its effectiveness.

To participate in the trial, individuals must be between 18 and 70 years old and have been experiencing moderate to severe radicular pain for less than 12 weeks. However, those with certain health conditions, a history of regular cannabis or opioid use, or who are pregnant or breastfeeding cannot join. Participants will receive the cannabis oil and will be monitored throughout the study to assess how well it works and if there are any side effects. This trial is currently recruiting and offers a potential new option for managing acute pain for those who qualify.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 18 - 70 years
• • ASA 1 or 2
• • Acute Radicular Pain \< 12 weeks
• • Pain of VAS 6 or more/ VRS moderate or more
• • Radicular pain: Dermatomal pain that corresponds to physical exam and CT/MRI in the last year
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Age \< 18 or \> 70 years
• • ASA 3 or more
• • Chronic radicular pain \> 12 weeks
• • Past spine surgery
• • Intermittent Claudication due to Vascular Disease
• • Diagnosed Diabetic Neuropathy
• • Regular Cannabis use in past 6 months (more than once a week) OR once in last 2 weeks
• • Regular opioid use in past week (Targin, Percocet, Tramadol) (Equivalent to Oxycodone 20 mg/day or more)
• • Pregnancy or Lactating
• • Ischemic heart disease
• • Renal or hepatic failure
• • History of psychiatric illness
• • Cognitive impairment or inability to answer questions
• • Known allergy to opioids
• • Potential Loss to follow up