The WAVE Study
An investigational water-soluble CBD product and alcohol use: a randomized, placebo-controlled trial
Most adults who drink at risky levels never meet criteria for alcohol use disorder, and are therefore not candidates for the medications approved to treat it. The WAVE Study asks whether an investigational water-soluble CBD product may affect alcohol use in adults who want to reduce risky drinking.
WAVE is a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled pilot trial conducted under FDA Investigational New Drug application 180150 and led by Dr. Karina Villalba at the University of Central Florida. Forty-five adults in Central Florida are randomized to full-spectrum water-soluble CBD, broad-spectrum water-soluble CBD, or placebo, taken daily at 75 mg for four weeks and 150 mg for the following four weeks, with a one-month post-treatment follow-up. Participants report daily through a secure smartphone app and complete four in-depth assessments with the research team.
The trial is designed to establish feasibility and safety first, and to give a preliminary read on drinking days and alcohol craving — the evidence on which a larger efficacy trial would be built.
The WAVE Study is now enrolling in Central Florida. See the flyer below for eligibility and how to reach the study team.
