Effects of a CB1 Receptor Antagonist/Inverse Agonist (Rimonabant) on Walking Ability in Patients in the Chronic Phase of Stroke
A stroke can lead to long-term walking problems, muscle stiffness, and fatigue. This clinical trial is testing a medicine called rimonabant to see if it can improve mobility in people who had a stroke some time ago (chronic stroke). Participants take a daily tablet that melts on the tongue. Half the participants will receive rimonabant, while the other half will receive an identical dummy tablet (placebo). Neither you nor your doctor will choose which one you receive. Researchers will measure how far you can walk in six minutes and how quickly you can walk over a short ten-metre distance. The study team will also closely monitor your physical health, muscle spasms, mood, and energy levels to make sure the treatment is safe and well tolerated. The findings could help doctors understand if this medicine offers a new way to aid stroke recovery.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone has a stroke, damage to the brain can cause lasting physical challenges. Many people experience muscle tightness (called spasticity), muscle spasms, tiredness, and difficulty walking. Even with rehabilitation, these symptoms can continue for months or years, affecting independence and everyday quality of life.
This trial is looking at whether a medicine called rimonabant can help improve walking ability. The treatment works on specific receptors in the nervous system that are involved in movement and muscle control. By using a low dose in a tablet that dissolves easily in your mouth, scientists hope to learn if it can help the body move more smoothly.
Finding new ways to improve walking long after a stroke has occurred is an important area of medical research. If this medicine proves helpful and safe, it could open the door to new treatment options for stroke survivors who struggle with mobility and fatigue in their daily lives.
Key takeaways
- Tests whether a dissolving tablet called rimonabant can improve walking after a stroke.
- Open to adults aged 18 and older living with long-term stroke mobility issues.
- Half of the participants receive the real medicine and half receive a dummy tablet (placebo).
- Involves regular walking tests, heart checks, and questionnaires about daily life and mood.
- Participation is entirely voluntary and you can stop at any time.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to adults aged 18 and older who are in the long-term or 'chronic' stage of stroke recovery. Both men and women can take part if they still experience walking difficulties caused by their stroke.
Because safety is the top priority, the study team will carry out health checks before you can join. These checks will make sure that your heart, general physical condition, and emotional well-being are suitable for this study.
You might not be able to join if you have certain other medical conditions, take medicines that could interact with the trial drug, or if walking tests are not safe for you. The study doctors will discuss all your health details with you to see if the trial is right for you.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- I am aged 18 or older.
- I have had a stroke in the past and am now in the chronic (long-term) recovery phase.
- I currently experience mobility or walking difficulties due to my stroke.
- I am able to attend regular clinic appointments for health checks and walking tests.
- I am willing to take a daily dissolving tablet and fill out short health questionnaires.
What does participation involve?
Taking part involves taking one small tablet each day that dissolves on your tongue. Because this is a controlled trial, you will be randomly chosen to receive either the active medicine (rimonabant) or an identical dummy tablet (placebo).
You will visit the clinic regularly for health and mobility checks. During these visits, the medical team will measure your blood pressure and heart rate, perform heart traces (ECGs), and ask you to complete walking tests. These include seeing how far you can walk in six minutes and timing you over ten metres.
You will also fill out short questionnaires about your energy levels, muscle spasms, pain, and emotional well-being. These visits allow the researchers to measure any improvements in your walking while keeping a very close watch on your safety and comfort.
Potential risks and benefits
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Common questions
What is a placebo and why is it used?
A placebo is a dummy tablet that looks identical to the real medicine but contains no active ingredients. It helps researchers prove whether any improvements or side effects are truly caused by the study medicine.
Will taking part replace my usual stroke care or physiotherapy?
No. The trial treatment is given alongside your usual medical care, and you should continue your standard stroke treatments and lifestyle advice as agreed with your doctor.
What does a dissolving tablet mean?
The medicine is an orally disintegrating tablet (ODT). This means it quickly dissolves in your mouth without needing to be swallowed with water, making it easier to take.
What happens if I feel unwell or my mood changes?
The study team will monitor your physical and mental health closely. If you feel unwell, develop any symptoms, or notice a change in your mood, you should contact the research team immediately.
Can I leave the study if I change my mind?
Yes. Taking part is completely voluntary. You can choose to stop participating at any point, and you do not need to give a reason. Your regular healthcare will continue as normal.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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