Australian biotechnology company OMG Pharma, a division of the Oz Medicann Group, has announced the commencement of a world-first clinical study in partnership with the National Institute of Complementary Medicine (NICM Health Research Institute) at Western Sydney University. The trial investigates the efficacy of a CBD-based topical salve in reducing pain and inflammation in people living with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition that imposes a significant burden on both patients and the healthcare system.
This study marks a milestone in the evolution of cannabinoid-based medicine, as the field aims to move beyond anecdotal evidence and assess if cannabidiol (CBD) applied topically may offer targeted and meaningful relief for inflammatory joint conditions.
Clinical Translation in Focus
The study is led by Associate Professor Carolyn Ee, a recognised authority in integrative medicine. She noted that emerging pre-clinical and observational evidence supports the hypothesis that CBD may improve pain and function in rheumatoid arthritis when applied topically.
“CBD salves are non-intoxicating, bypass liver metabolism and may represent potentially powerful adjuncts for patients who aren’t responding to standard therapies,” said Associate Professor Ee. “Our trial will provide preliminary evidence on whether this route of administration could offer real, measurable improvements in pain and mobility.”
Investment in Innovation and Evidence
OMG Pharma Chair and Founder John Leith said the partnership with NICM was part of a long-term commitment to build Australia’s reputation as a global leader in cannabinoid science.
“This is an inflection point in cannabis medicine,” said Mr. Leith. “We view research as critical to the industry and invest significant resources at different stages of product development. Our salve has been specifically formulated, and this trial will serve as a more robust indicator of benefit and provide support for further controlled studies.”
“We believe this could open new pathways in both domestic and international markets, given the global prevalence of inflammatory conditions and the rising demand for plant-based, non-opioid interventions,” he added.
Alan Bensoussan Emeritus Professor, Rohit Bhuta CEO Oz Medicann Group, Carolyn Ee Lead researcher, John Leith Chair and Founder Oz Medicann Group, Sara Alaeddin and Celine Frangieh NICM researchers.
Patient Impact: From Pain to Potential
For Melbourne-based consumer Kathryn Hunt, the treatment has already had a profound impact. Diagnosed with severe rheumatoid arthritis over a decade ago, Ms. Hunt says the salve has delivered “the first instant relief” she’s felt in years.
“By evening my joints were no longer throbbing, and I could actually use my hands again,” she said. “For anyone living with this kind of pain, it’s hard to overstate how transformative even a small improvement can be.”
Strategic Positioning for the Future
The clinical trial is also part of OMG Pharma’s broader strategic effort to position cannabinoid-based medicines within mainstream therapeutic frameworks, supported by clinical rigor, regulatory alignment, and commercial scalability.
The trial is open to eligible adults with rheumatoid arthritis who are experiencing pain in at least four joints, are inadequately managed on current treatment, and who have not used cannabis products in the past 90 days. Participants must be able to attend two site visits at NICM’s Westmead research facility over the course of the four-week trial.
Media Contact
Rohit Bhuta
CEO – Oz Medicann Group
+61 433 229 054
rohitb@ozmedicann.com
Christian Hagward
Media & Public Affairs – Oz Medicann Group
+61 478 178 025
christianh@ozmedicann.com
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