Researchers from Western Sydney University and the University of Sydney are looking for people with rheumatoid arthritis to take part in a clinical trial on topical cannabidiol (CBD or a type of medicinal cannabis).

Early studies suggest medicinal cannabis may have beneficial effects on pain and function in arthritis, however more research is needed. Topical CBD is applied directly to the skin over painful joints and has several advantages including few side effects. CBD does not contain any of the compounds in cannabis that can cause people to feel “high”, therefore using this medication will not affect mental state.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis and have been on stable doses of medication for arthritis, then this study may be suitable for you.

What will I be asked to do?

· Have blood tests done before and after the study

· Attend 2 x one-hour study visits at Western Sydney University, Westmead campus before and after the study

· Apply the medication (provided in the form of a roll-on salve) to affected joints for 4 weeks

· Record daily medications and side effects (if any)

What are the possible benefits for me?

You may experience an improvement in your symptoms from using the medication although there is no guarantee this will happen. You will be able to keep the medication that is remaining at the end of the study.

For more information email: cbdarthritis@westernsydney.edu.au or visit https://surveyswesternsydney.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aaWxIbsGSy6Q69w

This study has received Ethics approval from the Western Sydney University Human Research Ethics Committee (H16105) and is funded by a research grant from OMG Pharmaceuticals.