The Medicinal Cannabis Research Collaboration (MCRC) conducts high quality research on medicinal cannabis products. This research will have several outcomes including high-quality publications, research grants, student training as well as improving industry and community health outcomes.

Medicinal cannabis products are increasingly being prescribed in Australia. There are many claims about the beneficial use of these products for a wide range of conditions, yet many of these claims lack solid scientific backing. 

There are different types of cannabis plants, which can contain over 400 various compounds in the raw form. We research cannabis products using known stable active components, so that treatment outcomes can be compared and replicated.

The two main active components that are the current focus of our research are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). However, there are many other components that may be beneficial and will be the focus of research in the future. 

Our research aims to establish which cannabis compounds and dosage levels are effective, and for which conditions and symptoms. We are also interested in how certain cannabis compounds affect behaviour and performance, such as how certain compounds affect driving abilities. 

Our studies

This study will be looking at whether a medicinal cannabinoid (CBD) product can improve sleep outcomes and general wellbeing in adults with moderate to severe insomnia. It will also examine the effect on cognition, mood and general wellbeing.

Participation will involve taking an oral cannabidiol (CBD) treatment or placebo nightly for a three-week period. Participants will also complete a daily sleep-monitoring diary and treatment log.       

During the trial, participants will be asked to attend Swinburne University on five separate occasions:

  • one screening session for a maximum of 1.5 hours
  • four check-in and compliance sessions of 45 minutes each. 


Participants may be eligible if aged 18 to 45 years and presenting with moderate to severe sleeping difficulties, such as difficulty falling or staying asleep, dissatisfaction with current sleep patterns, or sleep problems interfering with daily life. Additional criteria apply.

Contact

The CBD-INS team

CBD-INS@swin.edu.au

Explore our other research programs

Contact the Centre for Human Psychopharmacology

There are many ways to engage with us. If your organisation is dealing with a complex problem, get in touch to discuss how we can work together to provide solutions. Call us on +61 3 9214 4444 or email chp@swinburne.edu.au

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