A clinical trial is a research study which tests new treatments and medicines. These tests are vital to determine medication side effects and effectiveness for managing different medical conditions. Doctors rely on the outcomes of clinical trials when making decisions about prescribing medication and other treatments for their patients.
Many people like to volunteer to participate in clinical trials knowing that their involvement is contributing to a body of knowledge that will ultimately help people with the condition.
There are strict rules in Australia governing research activities and approval, and it is important to know that:
Below are a number of clinical trials that Epilepsy Action Australia supports. The listed research projects may be at different stages including: recruiting for participants,
The Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics and the University of Sydney. Currently recruiting
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Australian Trial: This is a collaboration between the Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics at the University of Sydney; and Orygen, the National Centre of Excellence in Youth Mental Health. This study is only open to those located in Victoria, Western Australian or Queensland.
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Melbourne Brain Centre
Lambert Initiative for Cannabinoid Therapeutics.
The Lambert Initiative at the University of Sydney, Royal Prince Alfred.
Researchers from the University of Sydney are launching an Australia-wide online survey of people who have used cannabis for MEDICAL (therapeutic) purposes within the last 12 months. Australian residents only.
Recruitment: Expected April 2020
Study: A Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Study Investigating the Safety, Tolerability, Efficacy and Pharmacokinetics of EP1, an Enriched Cannabidiol Oil, in Children and Adolescents with Medication Resistant, Refractory Epilepsy
Research Collaborators: Melbourne Brain Centre (contact Mr Paul Lightfoot), Cann Pharmaceutical Aust Ltd Ltd
About the Study: The study will aim to determine if EP1 is an effective treatment for refractory epilepsy in children, adolescents and young adults by comparing different doses of EP1 against a placebo by measuring seizure frequency and character.
Publication: Pending
Recruitment: Closed
Study: Exploring the effects of THC and CBD on simulated driving.
Research Collaborators: The Lambert Initiative at the University of Sydney, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Tilray.
Chief Investigators: Professor Iain McGregor (Lambert Initiative, University of Sydney)
Completed: 2018
About the Study: This study explores the idea that CBD content in cannabis plant material will modify the effects of THC on driving, and investigates the link between concentrations of cannabinoids in blood and saliva, and driving ability. Drug testing of saliva and blood followed current Australian police procedures. A secondary aim of the study was to examine the relationship between positive results on these tests and actual driving impairment, currently a very controversial topic in the community and in legal circles.
Publication: Pending
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