Researchers tested VER-01, a cannabis-based extract, on adults with persistent lower back pain. Patients reported meaningful improvements in pain scores within months. Unlike smoking cannabis, the extract delivers controlled doses without exposing patients to harmful combustion or recreational effects. Scientists designed VER-01 to reduce pain while avoiding addiction or serious side effects. Chronic lower back pain affects over 619 million people worldwide, making it the leading cause of disability. Existing treatments, including opioids and NSAIDs, often carry severe risks or fail to provide adequate relief. Many patients endure ongoing pain due to limited safe options.
Clinical Trial Demonstrates Significant Benefits
The trial enrolled 820 adults who had not achieved sufficient pain control with non-opioid medicines. Researchers split participants into two groups: half received VER-01, and half received a placebo. Participants recorded pain levels on a 0–10 scale, with 10 representing worst pain. After three months, VER-01 patients reported a 1.9-point decrease, while placebo participants saw only a 0.6-point decline. During a six-month extension, VER-01 patients experienced an additional 1.1-point reduction. Patients also reported better sleep and improved mobility. These results, published in Nature Medicine, suggest the extract provides clinically meaningful relief. Jan Vollert, neuroscience lecturer at the University of Exeter, praised the trial while urging further studies.
Safety Profile and Future Research
Researchers observed mild, short-term side effects, including dizziness, nausea, and drowsiness. The study found no evidence of dependence or drug abuse. VER-01 contains 2.5 milligrams of THC per dose alongside other active compounds from Cannabis sativa. Experts caution that VER-01 differs completely from smoking cannabis. Vollert compared it to the difference between eating hazelnuts and eating Nutella: similar origin, but vastly different effects. The research team plans additional trials comparing VER-01 with opioid treatments for chronic back pain. If future studies confirm results, VER-01 could provide a safe, effective alternative for millions suffering persistent lower back pain worldwide.
