A German pharmaceutical company has demonstrated that a cannabis-based medication can effectively treat chronic lower back pain without the risks associated with opioid therapy. Vertanical conducted a clinical trial with 800 participants who received a low-THC liquid extract over 12 weeks, and the results showed patients experienced nearly double the pain relief compared to those given a placebo. Dr. Matthias Karst from Hannover Medical School reported that the treatment improved pain levels, physical function, and sleep quality while avoiding opioid-related safety concerns.
The medication contains minimal THC amounts sufficient for therapeutic benefit but insufficient to produce psychoactive effects. Common side effects were dizziness and nausea, but only 17 percent of participants discontinued treatment, which is lower than typical opioid dropout rates. Vertanical is pursuing regulatory approval in Europe and collaborating with U.S. authorities for FDA authorization.
The medication contains minimal THC amounts sufficient for therapeutic benefit but insufficient to produce psychoactive effects. Common side effects were dizziness and nausea, but only 17 percent of participants discontinued treatment, which is lower than typical opioid dropout rates. Vertanical is pursuing regulatory approval in Europe and collaborating with U.S. authorities for FDA authorization.
