Researchers tested VER-01, an experimental cannabis extract, on adults with persistent lower back pain. Patients reported meaningful pain reductions over several months. The extract delivers precise doses without the risks linked to smoking cannabis. Scientists designed VER-01 to minimize addiction and serious side effects. Chronic lower back pain affects over 619 million people worldwide, making it the leading cause of disability. Conventional treatments remain limited: opioids carry high addiction risks, and NSAIDs can damage the heart and stomach with long-term use. Patients often struggle to find effective, safe pain relief.
Clinical Trial Demonstrates Measurable Benefits
The trial involved 820 adults whose pain persisted despite non-opioid medications. Researchers divided participants evenly, giving half VER-01 and half a placebo. Patients rated their pain from 0 to 10, with 10 being the worst possible pain. After three months, VER-01 recipients reported an average 1.9-point drop, while placebo users improved only 0.6 points. A six-month extension showed an additional 1.1-point decrease, alongside better sleep and improved physical function. The study, published in Nature Medicine, highlights clinically significant results. Jan Vollert of the University of Exeter praised the findings but urged further trials to confirm efficacy.
Safety Profile and Future Research
Patients experienced mild dizziness, nausea, and temporary sleepiness. Researchers observed no signs of drug abuse or dependence. Each VER-01 dose contains 2.5 milligrams of THC and other cannabis compounds, but it does not induce a “high” like smoking marijuana. Vollert emphasized that VER-01 is not interchangeable with cannabis use, comparing it to hazelnuts versus Nutella: similar origins but vastly different effects. Researchers plan further studies comparing VER-01 with opioid treatments to evaluate long-term safety and effectiveness. If future trials confirm these results, VER-01 could provide a safer, effective option for millions living with chronic lower back pain.
