Cannabis Extracts and Chronic Pain: What the VER‑01 Study Means for UK Consumers

The UK news site Sky News recently reported on a Nature Medicine study that has caught the attention of anyone living with persistent back pain. In a large phase‑three clinical trial involving more than 820 adults from Germany and Austria, researchers tested VER‑01, a standardized full‑spectrum cannabis extract formulated in sesame oil. Participants who took VER‑01 experienced a 1.9‑point reduction in pain on a 10‑point numeric rating scale, compared with 1.4 points in the placebo group. More importantly, 54 % of those receiving the extract achieved at least 30 % pain reduction, versus 40 % with placebo. Sleep quality and physical function scores also improved significantly, and there were no signs of dose escalation or withdrawal when treatment was stopped. These findings suggest that cannabis‑based medicines can offer real pain relief without the addiction risk of opioids.

Understanding VER‑01 and Why It’s Different

VER‑01 is not just any cannabis oil; it is a controlled, laboratory‑standardised extract. Researchers characterised its cannabinoid, terpene and flavonoid profile to ensure consistent dosing. The trial compared VER‑01 with placebo in a double‑blind setting, followed by a six‑month open‑label extension and a subsequent withdrawal phase. Beyond pain relief, patients reported better sleep and physical function. Adverse events were mostly mild—dizziness, fatigue, nausea and dry mouth—and serious events were comparable between groups. Crucially, there were no signs of dependence or abuse. Experts like Dr Jan Vollert at the University of Exeter praised the study as “excellent”, emphasising that well‑conducted, double‑blind trials are essential for demonstrating the true benefits of medical cannabis. The results show that a carefully formulated extract may provide meaningful relief where opioids and non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs often fail.

How CBD Works and Why It Matters

The promise of VER‑01 lies in the plant’s natural compounds. Cannabidiol (CBD) is a non‑intoxicating component of cannabis that research suggests can reduce inflammation and ease nerve‑related pain. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD delivers therapeutic benefits without impairing mental clarity. The Weed Supermarket blog explains that people with chronic conditions such as multiple sclerosis often turn to CBD‑rich cannabis products to reduce muscle spasms, improve sleep and relieve nerve pain. Customers describe feeling “more like themselves again” after incorporating CBD‑rich strains into their daily routine. These benefits appear to mirror the improved sleep and physical function seen in the VER‑01 trial.

Weed Supermarket Products That Support Pain Relief

While VER‑01 is not yet available commercially, UK consumers can legally access hemp‑derived products that may support their wellness. Weed Supermarket specialises in lab‑tested CBD flowers, hash and herbal teas that are naturally high in CBD and low in THC. Many customers prefer vaping these flowers or infusing them into tea for a smoother experience. According to Weed Supermarket’s own research, CBD‑rich products can reduce nerve and muscular pain, improve sleep quality and calm anxiety. They may also help with inflammation and mobility. Popular options include:

• THCa Cannabis Derived Products: THCa is legal unless it is heated and converts in THC, complying with UK regulations and have been reported to offer a range of benefits to those in chronic pain. Check out our THCa products.

• CBD Hash and Flower: These products are triple‑sealed and lab‑certified. They comply with UK regulations and contain trace amounts of THC, offering potential pain relief without a “high”. Customers often report improved sleep and reduced muscle spasms when using them responsibly. Browse our Herbs.

• CBD Isolates and Distillates: These concentrates contain nearly pure cannabidiol, allowing users to control dosing precisely. Some people add them to their own creams or oils for targeted topical application. View our Isolates & Extracts.

All products sold by Weed Supermarket are novel foods or souvenirs and are not intended for combustion or recreational use. They come from EU‑approved hemp varieties and meet the UK’s legal definition of an “exempted product”.

A Note on Safety and Responsible Use

The exciting news about VER‑01 demonstrates that cannabis‑based medicines are entering mainstream medicine as a potential solution for chronic back pain. However, it’s important to recognise that not all cannabis products are created equal. The researchers behind VER‑01 caution that their findings do not apply to smoking cannabis. Any consumer considering CBD products for pain should consult a healthcare professional, especially if they take other medications. As Weed Supermarket notes, medical guidance is essential and CBD should be part of a broader wellness toolkit.

Final Thoughts

With opioid‑related harm still a major public‑health issue, the VER‑01 study offers a promising non‑addictive alternative for chronic back pain. While the extract itself is still undergoing evaluation, CBD‑rich products already available in the UK could offer similar anti‑inflammatory and analgesic effects. Weed Supermarket remains committed to providing high‑quality, legally compliant cannabis products that support pain management and overall wellbeing. As research evolves, UK consumers may soon have a wider range of clinically proven cannabis‑based medicines to choose from. In the meantime, exploring CBD flowers, teas and isolates with professional advice could be a gentle way to address chronic pain and improve quality of life.