Oral and Topical Phytocannabinoids for Psoriasis

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Oral Cannabis Extract: Oral administration of a full-spectrum cannabis extract containing CBD, CBG, and THC in a 1:1:1 ratio, with a concentration of 20 mg/mL of each cannabinoid. Dose titration will be performed progressively according to tolerability, followed by maintenance at the maximum dose.

Topical cannabis cream: Topical formulation containing CBD, CBG, and THC in a 1:1:1 ratio (20 mg/mL each), applied directly to psoriatic lesions twice daily throughout the study period. No dose titration will be performed.

Study summary

Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects approximately 2% of the global population and is frequently associated with psychiatric comorbidities such as anxiety and depression. Although conventional treatments, including topical corticosteroids and biologic agents, may be effective, many patients face challenges related to treatment adherence, adverse effects, and the psychosocial impact of the disease. This open label study aims to investigate the efficacy and acceptability of medicinal cannabis formulations administered orally and topically in the management of mild to moderate psoriasis. 37 participants will be included and will use full spectrum cannabis formulations in the (1:1:1) CBD:CBG:THC ratio at a concentration of 20 mg/ml. The protocol will have a total duration of 180 days, consisting of 60 days of isolated treatment followed by 120 days of combined treatment. Efficacy will be assessed using validated instruments, including PASI, DLQI, BDI II and BAI, the Visual Analog Scale for pruritus intensity, the Cosmetic Acceptability Scale, and the Treatment Satisfaction Scale. The use of cannabis formulations is expected to promote clinical improvement of skin lesions, reduction of subjective symptoms such as pruritus and discomfort, and a positive impact on patients quality of life. This study seeks to contribute to the generation of evidence, regarding the efficacy, safety, and acceptability of therapeutic cannabis use in the dermatological context.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) total score — Baseline and 6 months
  Single aggregated composite score evaluating overall psoriasis severity across four body regions (head, trunk, upper limbs, and lower limbs) and three lesion characteristics (erythema, induration, and desquamation). Individual parameters and sub-scores are combined via the standard PASI mathematical formula to yield a single reported outcome value ranging from 0 to 72, where higher scores represent greater overall disease severity.

Trial sites (1)

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