NCT05649059 · Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Investigating the Effects of Cannabidiol on Social Anxiety Disorder
(CAN-SAD)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to test whether a single-dose of Epidiolex (cannabidiol) is associated with reduced psychological, physiological, and neuroimaging measures of anxiety in people diagnosed with social anxiety disorder (SAD).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to test whether a single-dose of Epidiolex (cannabidiol) is associated with reduced psychological, physiological, and neuroimaging measures of anxiety in people diagnosed with social anxiety disorder (SAD).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Ability and willingness to provide written informed consent.
- Sufficiently fluent in English to participate in the trial.
- Between 18-55 years of age (inclusive).
- Right-hand dominant.
- Current medications are stable for past 30 days (no changes to dose or frequency).
- Negative result on pregnancy test (if female).
- Negative result on urine drug screening.
- Liebowitz Social Anxiety Scale (LSAS ≥ 60).
Exclusion criteria
- History of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, psychosis, delusional disorders.
- History of eating disorder within past 6 months.
- History of any traumatic brain injury.
- Currently diagnosed with diabetes mellitus.
- Presence of severe medical illness that would prevent completion of study procedures.
- Presence of significant neurological illness or cognitive dysfunction (e.g.; seizures, dementia).
- History of substance use disorder within past 6 months (other than nicotine and caffeine).
- Use of any cannabis-containing products in past 30 days (CBD or THC).
- Use of benzodiazepines in past 2 weeks.
- Use of alpha- or beta-blockers in past week.
- History of claustrophobia.
- Contraindications for MRI (e.g.; shrapnel).
- Presence of any other medical condition that, in the investigator's opinion, may interfere with the study procedures.
- Use of concomitant medication that has a strong interaction with CBD.
- History of liver disease.
- History of hypersensitivity to cannabinoids.
- History of hypersensitivity to sesame seed oil.
- Currently breastfeeding (if female).
Where
- Cambridge, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Dec 3, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations