The CBD-IC Randomized Controlled Trial: Evaluation of Hemp Cannabidiol SuppositoRies for Pain and Urinary SymptOms in INterstitial Cystitis (CHRONIC)

This study seeks to exploit bladder cannabidiol receptors as a therapeutic drug target by conducting a double-masked, placebo-controlled randomized trial evaluating the effects of vaginal hemp cannabidiol (CBD) suppositories on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), pain severity, and sexual function.

Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS) is a chronic inflammatory disease with an insidious course and is detrimental weight to women's quality of life, sexual function, and general health. IC/BPS affects nearly 1.2 million women in the United States and although there are currently six lines of treatment, they lack high level evidence and sufficient efficacy. New therapies are in high demand. As the cannabis industry gains popularity in medicine, research has revealed prevalent expression of cannabinoid receptors in bladder detrusor muscle and urothelium suggesting a novel drug target for IC/BPS. This study seeks to exploit this target by conducting a double-masked, placebo-controlled randomized trial evaluating the effects of vaginal hemp cannabidiol (CBD) suppositories on lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS), pain severity, and sexual function. Women with diagnosed IC/BPS will be randomized to treatment with a placebo vaginal suppository or a hemp CBD vaginal suppository. We will monitor changes in their LUTS, pain, and sexual function using validated questionnaires. Our goal is to evaluate whether CBD is an effective, low-risk and less invasive treatment option for IC/BPS. Attainment of this goal would demonstrate a potential novel use for CBD in our Urogynecology patient population.

Eligibility Criteria:
Inclusion Criteria:

* Female Subjects ≥ 18 years of age
* Interstitial cystitis (IC) diagnosis
* English speaking/reading
* Prior treatment with one known treatment for IC: behavioral modifications, pelvic floor physical therapy, medications (amitriptyline, cimetidine, pentosane polysulfate sodium, or hydroxyzine), bladder instillations, bladder hydrodistention, cystoscopic fulguration or injection of Hunner's lesions, intradetrusor injection of botulinum toxin, or sacral neuromodulation
* Females of childbearing potential must use contraception throughout the study period (hormonal contraception, diaphragm, cervical cap, vaginal sponge, condoms, vasectomy, long acting reversible contraception)
* Females of non-child bearing potential must be post-menopausal defined as: \> 51yo with no menses within the past 12mo or history of hysterectomy or history of bilateral oophorectomy or bilateral tubal ligation

Exclusion Criteria:

* THC or cannabidiol use within 1 month prior to enrollment per patient report
* Positive urine marijuana drug test on day of study enrollment
* Plan to use concomitant THC or cannabidiol of any form during the 6 week study period
* Inability to speak/understand English
* Pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant
* Unable to be contacted for follow up by telephone
* Cocoa butter allergy
* AST or ALT greater than 3 times the upper limit of normal at time of enrollment
* Females of childbearing potential with a positive urine pregnancy test at screening/prior to administration of Day 1 of treatment
* Subjects taking prescription or non-prescription medication which are substrates of CYP3A4, CYP2C19, CYP2C8, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP1A2 and CYP2B6 within 14 days of the study procedure