Cannabis Extracts & Chronic Pain

Published: 4 October 2025
Last Updated: 24 July 2026
Last Reviewed: 24 July 2026
Author: Weed Supermarket Editorial Team

What the VER-01 Study Means

Chronic pain affects millions of people worldwide and remains one of the leading causes of reduced quality of life. Although many treatments are available, not everyone achieves adequate pain relief, and some medicines can cause significant side effects or carry a risk of dependence.

A large clinical trial published in Nature Medicine attracted considerable attention after investigating a standardised cannabis extract known as VER-01 for chronic back pain. The study provides valuable insight into the potential role of cannabis-based medicines while also highlighting the importance of distinguishing prescription medicines from consumer cannabinoid products.

This article explains what the VER-01 study found, what it does—and does not—tell us, and how it fits into the wider body of cannabinoid research.

What Is VER-01?

VER-01 is a pharmaceutical-grade cannabis extract developed under controlled manufacturing conditions.

Unlike many commercially available cannabinoid products, VER-01 has a carefully standardised cannabinoid profile designed to provide consistent dosing throughout clinical trials.

The formulation investigated in the study contained multiple naturally occurring cannabis compounds and was administered under medical supervision.

The Nature Medicine Study

The phase III clinical trial enrolled more than 820 adults with chronic low back pain across Germany and Austria.

Researchers compared VER-01 with a placebo using a randomised, double-blind study design, considered one of the highest standards in clinical research.

The study also included longer-term follow-up after the initial treatment period.

What Did Researchers Find?

The investigators reported that participants receiving VER-01 experienced statistically significant improvements compared with placebo.

Reported outcomes included improvements in:

Pain intensity.
Physical function.
Sleep quality.

A greater proportion of participants receiving VER-01 achieved clinically meaningful reductions in pain compared with those receiving placebo.

The researchers also reported no evidence of withdrawal symptoms or dose escalation during the study period.

These findings support continued research into cannabis-based medicines for chronic pain.

What Makes This Study Important?

The study is notable because of its size and methodology.

Strengths included:

Large participant numbers.
Randomised design.
Double-blind methodology.
Placebo comparison.
Extended follow-up.

High-quality trials of this nature provide stronger evidence than anecdotal reports or uncontrolled observational studies.

Does This Mean CBD Treats Chronic Pain?

No.

The VER-01 study investigated a specific pharmaceutical cannabis extract rather than CBD alone.

Its findings should not be interpreted as evidence that consumer CBD products provide the same results.

Although cannabinoids continue to be investigated for chronic pain, responses vary considerably depending on:

The cannabinoid profile.
The formulation.
The dose used.
The condition being treated.
The individual patient.

CBD and Chronic Pain Research

CBD (cannabidiol) has been investigated for several pain-related conditions.

Researchers continue to study CBD in relation to:

Neuropathic pain.
Inflammation.
Sleep.
Quality of life.

While some studies have reported encouraging findings, systematic reviews generally conclude that evidence remains mixed and additional high-quality clinical trials are required.

Learn more in our guide explaining the CBD Entourage Effect.

Medical Cannabis and Chronic Pain

Medical cannabis remains one of the most actively researched areas of cannabinoid medicine.

Some prescription cannabis-based medicines have demonstrated benefit for carefully selected patients with chronic pain, although effectiveness varies between individuals.

Treatment decisions should always be made by appropriately qualified healthcare professionals.

Can Consumer CBD Products Replace Prescription Medicines?

No.

Consumer CBD products should not be regarded as substitutes for prescribed pain medication or cannabis-based medicinal products.

Anyone considering cannabinoids alongside existing treatment should discuss this with their healthcare professional.

Possible Side Effects

As with many medicines and supplements, cannabinoids may cause side effects.

Reported effects may include:

Drowsiness.
Dizziness.
Dry mouth.
Digestive discomfort.
Possible medication interactions.

Individual responses differ considerably.

Why Product Quality Matters

Independent laboratory testing provides information about the composition of cannabinoid products.

Testing may include:

Cannabinoid profile.
THC content.
Heavy metals.
Residual solvents.
Microbiological contamination.
Batch consistency.

Testing helps verify composition but does not demonstrate effectiveness for chronic pain.

Read more in our UK Compliance & Laboratory Testing guide.

Related Guides

Frequently Asked Questions

What is VER-01?

VER-01 is a pharmaceutical-grade cannabis extract that has been investigated in clinical trials for chronic low back pain.

Did the study show positive results?

The published trial reported statistically significant improvements in pain, sleep and physical function compared with placebo, supporting further research.

Does the VER-01 study prove CBD works for chronic pain?

No. The study examined a specific cannabis-based medicinal formulation rather than CBD alone.

Can I replace my prescribed pain medication with CBD?

No. Never stop or alter prescribed medication without consulting your healthcare professional.

Can CBD interact with medication?

Yes. CBD may affect the metabolism of certain medicines, so medical advice should always be sought before use.

Are cannabis-based medicines available in the UK?

Certain cannabis-based medicinal products may be prescribed by specialist clinicians in limited clinical circumstances.

Final Thoughts

The VER-01 clinical trial represents an important step forward in understanding the potential role of cannabis-based medicines in chronic pain management.

Although the findings are encouraging, they relate to a specific pharmaceutical formulation studied under carefully controlled clinical conditions and should not be generalised to all cannabinoid products.

As research continues, high-quality clinical trials will remain essential for determining which cannabinoid medicines are most effective, for which conditions, and under what circumstances.

Compliance Statement

This article is provided for educational purposes only and summarises published research into cannabis-based medicines. It does not claim that CBD or other consumer cannabinoid products diagnose, treat, prevent or cure chronic pain. Anyone considering cannabinoid products should seek advice from an appropriately qualified healthcare professional, particularly if taking prescription medication or living with a chronic medical condition.