Can CBD calm the fear of eating? new trial tests it in anorexia

NCT ID NCT04878627

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, San Diego Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase trial is testing whether cannabidiol (CBD) can safely reduce anxiety around mealtimes in people with anorexia nervosa. Forty participants will receive either CBD or a placebo for three weeks. Researchers will track side effects, blood levels of CBD, and changes in eating disorder symptoms.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: cannabidiol (CBD)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to ease anxiety around eating for people with anorexia nervosa.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small study (40 people) focused on safety and dosing, not on proving effectiveness. CBD may not reduce anxiety or could cause side effects.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

anorexia nervosa

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANOREXIA NERVOSA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of California San Diego

San Diego, California, 92121, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.