NCT05519111 · Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Cannabinoids for the Reduction of Inflammation and Sickle Cell Related Pain
(CRISP)
What this study is about
A randomly assigned, double blind, study of dronabinol as a palliative agent in the treatment of pain, inflammation, and other complications of sickle cell disease (SCD).
View original scientific description
A randomized, double blind, study of dronabinol as a palliative agent in the treatment of pain, inflammation, and other complications of sickle cell disease (SCD).
Interventions
DRUG
Dronabinol
Dronabinol, an FDA approval oral agent containing synthetic tetrahydrocannabinol (THC)
DRUG
Placebo
placebo equivalent
Primary outcome measures
Patient Reported Measurement Outcome Information System (PROMIS) pain impact score
Time frame: end of study at 8 weeks
Change in Patient Reported Measurement Outcome Information System (PROMIS) pain impact score. Total scale from 20-80, median of 50 and SD of 10. Higher score represent poorer health outcomes.
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
- Age \>18 years
- Clinical diagnosis of SCD (HbSS, HbSC, HbSβ+; Thal, HbSβ0Thal, HbS variants)
- Baseline score of 60 or lower on the ASCQ-Me 7-day pain interference domain
- If on a SCD modifying therapy (hydroxyurea, regular blood transfusions, L-glutamine, voxelotor, crizanlizumab), on stable dose for at least 3 months
- If using opioids for pain at home, on stable dose for at least 3 months
- One urine toxicology negative for cannabinoids within 30 days of randomization
- No known intolerance to dronabinol, or marijuana
- No history of psychotic episode, psychosis, or active suicidality
- No contraindication to dronabinol with attention to potential side effects, concurrent medications/substances, and concurrent medical problems, as evaluated by a physician
- Willing to abstain from cannabis, medical and illicit, during study weeks 1 through 8
- Not pregnant or nursing
- If a woman capable of becoming pregnant, willing to use a medically accepted form of birth control for the duration of study participation. Accepted forms include oral contraception, medroxyprogesterone, contraceptive implants or patch, surgical sterilization, total abstinence.
- Able to consent for research
- No daily cannabis use
- No diagnosis of active substance use disorder
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI)
Related conditions & keywords
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 Oct 2, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations