Comparing Over the Counter Pain Medicines for Discomfort in Crohn's Disease (AVID-CD)

What To Know

This listing is a small, University of North Carolina–run pilot trial testing over-the-counter pain medicines (ibuprofen and acetaminophen) for menstrual cramps in people with Crohn's disease. Participants will take each medicine for two menstrual cycles over four cycles total; the order is randomly assigned and not blinded.

The study focuses on feasibility outcomes — sign-up rates, adherence, retention, and study-process tasks like at-home stool samples and short electronic surveys — to inform a larger future trial. Screening visits include blood tests, pregnancy testing, stool testing, a physical exam, and baseline surveys; most study activities occur remotely.

Eligibility is limited to people assigned female at birth ages 18–44 with Crohn's disease in stable remission and primary dysmenorrhea, and excludes several gynecologic conditions and pregnancy. Treatments are standard OTC doses given for three days per cycle at the onset of cramps.

Participants and clinicians considering enrollment should review the full ClinicalTrials.gov record and discuss individual risks, especially given that NSAIDs like ibuprofen can have specific safety considerations in people with IBD.