About the research trial

Researchers at the InsideOut Institute and Lambert Initiative at the University of Sydney are investigating the safety and efficacy of a new pharmacological treatment, cannabidiol, as an adjunct to Maudsley Family Based Treatment in young persons aged 12-18 with anorexia nervosa.

Cannabidiol is a non-intoxicating component of the Cannabis plant, which is often referred to as CBD. Cannabidiol has been used in clinical trials in young persons with treatment-resistant anxiety disorders showing very promising results. We want to see if it will help treatment for young persons with anorexia nervosa.

Recruitment details

The young person may qualify if they:

• Are 12-18 years old
• Have anorexia nervosa
• Are in the care of a medical practitioner
• Are about to initiate or willing to commence Maudsley Family Based Treatment
• Are medically stable

Participation Involves

If the young person decides to take part in the research, they will be asked to:

• Have a medical assessment with their GP that will involve blood tests to confirm they are medically stable
• Take the investigational product, CBD.
• Attend Maudsley Family-Based Treatment sessions with their therapist in the community
• Complete a series of online questionnaires throughout treatment and at 3 and 6 months after treatment ends.

The treatment with CBD will begin at the commencement of MFBT and will continue every day for 12 weeks. In certain circumstances they may have the opportunity to continue taking CBD until the end of MFBT (week 24) as part of this trial. 

Your participation to participate in research is voluntary 

Reimbursement for participation:

• You will receive the investigational product, CBD, at no expense to you.
• You will need to be assessed by your GP for medical stability prior to participation and during participation. Appointments with your GP are at your own cost.
• Appointments with your clinician for Maudsley Family Based treatment are at your own cost.
• There are no other costs associated with participation in this research study, nor will you be paid.

If the young person would like to register their interest, they can complete our pre-screening questionnaire here: bit.ly/CAFTAN

You can also visit our trial website caftanstudy.com.au for additional details and resources