420 with CNW — Ohio Senators Approve Bill Overhauling Cannabis DUI Laws

The Ohio state Senate voted unanimously to approve a bill that changes how prosecutors prove whether someone was driving under the influence of cannabis.

Over the last ten years, Ohio has relaxed many of its cannabis restrictions, joining the growing number of states that permit both medical and recreational use. However, this shift has made it difficult to determine when cannabis use actually affects a person’s driving ability.

Unlike alcohol, which has a clear legal limit of 0.08% blood alcohol content, determining marijuana impairment is far more complicated. Scientific studies have found that some drivers with high THC levels show no signs of impairment, while others with low levels do.

Attorney Tim Huey, who represents DUI defense lawyers, said the current system risks convicting people who are not actually impaired.

If approved by the House and signed by the governor, Senate Bill 55 would make two major changes. First, it would end the current practice of convicting drivers simply because cannabis “metabolites” were found in their system. Metabolites are inactive traces left behind as the body breaks down cannabis. These can remain detectable for up to a month after use, even when the person is no longer impaired.

Under the new bill, prosecutors would instead need to prove that a driver had Delta-9 THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the high, in their bloodstream.

Second, the bill gives drivers more room to defend themselves if their THC level is relatively low. Under existing “per se” rules, a positive test almost always leads to a conviction.

The measure would also raise the “per se” THC limit from two nanograms per milliliter of blood to five. Anyone testing above that amount could still face automatic conviction, while those between two and five could present evidence to contest the charge.

SB 55 would be the first major update to the state’s cannabis-related driving laws since legalization.

Studies show that cannabis can slow reaction time and make it harder for drivers to stay focused or maintain their lane. However, research by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in 2017 found only a weak connection between blood THC levels and actual impairment. Similarly, a 2016 study by the AAA Foundation concluded that strict THC “per se” limits cannot be scientifically justified.

The Ohio Prosecuting Attorneys Association (OPAA), which previously opposed similar reforms, did not formally object to the new measure. Executive Director Lou Tobin said that prosecutors agreed with certain revisions, such as keeping a set THC threshold and including products like Delta-8. He added that officers only order tests when there’s a clear reason to suspect impairment and that drivers using marijuana should be aware of the risks before getting behind the wheel.

The broader marijuana industry, including foreign-based firms like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB), are likely to applaud these reforms in Ohio that seek to limit the unnecessary victimization of people who use cannabis.

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CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.

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CannabisNewsBreaks – Golden Triangle Ventures Inc. (OTC: GTVH) Launches Comprehensive Restructuring to Eliminate Convertible Debt and Retire 1.4 Billion Shares

Golden Triangle Ventures (OTC: GTVH) (“GTV”) initiated a major restructuring plan to eliminate all remaining convertible debt, retire 1.4 billion shares, reduce authorized shares, and implement a performance-based buyback program. Following a commitment from its primary noteholder to halt conversions and sales, the Company’s plan removes more than $10 million in combined debt and equity overhang. The agreement includes a final settlement issuing 680 million shares to retire approximately $7 million in debt, while permanently removing 1.4 billion shares from its capitalization table.

To view the full press release, visit https://cnw.fm/cU2XW

About Golden Triangle Ventures, Inc.

Golden Triangle Ventures (OTC: GTVH) is a diversified company developing a portfolio of high-growth businesses across construction, energy, and consumer goods. Through subsidiaries such as GoldenEra Development, GoFast Sports, Deep South Electrical Contractors , and its future Manufacturing & Logistics Division , the company operates a vertically integrated model focused on profitability, innovation, and long-term shareholder value.

NOTE TO INVESTORS: The latest news and updates relating to GTVH are available in the company’s newsroom at https://cnw.fm/GTVH

About CannabisNewsWire

CannabisNewsWire (“CNW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on cannabis news and the cannabis sector. It is one of 70+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, CNW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, CNW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness. CNW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

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420 with CNW — As Congress Considers Law Reforms, Target Starts Selling THC Drinks

Target is testing the sale of THC-infused drinks at a small number of stores in Minnesota, according to executives from cannabis drink companies involved in the rollout.

The retail giant, headquartered in Minnesota, is reportedly stocking around a dozen different THC drink brands in ten stores across the state. The soft launch signals a growing acceptance of hemp-derived THC products at large retail chains, even as lawmakers in Washington debate new restrictions on such products.

Jason Dayton, founder of Trail Magic, one of the participating brands, called Target’s decision “a huge milestone.” He noted that amid the national discussions over hemp regulation, this partnership highlights how sensible oversight and legal frameworks can help the industry grow responsibly.

“We’re all in favor of more structure, not less,” Dayton said. “Things like age restrictions, proper testing, and clear rules are what helped the alcohol business become a massive, well-regulated industry worth hundreds of billions of dollars.”

The initial lineup of THC drinks reportedly includes Cann, Birdie, Gigli, Indeed, Hi Seltzer, Señorita, Surly, Stigma, Trail Magic, Wyld, Wynk, and Wonder.

Cantrip CEO Adam Terry expressed disappointment that his company wasn’t part of the initial rollout but acknowledged the importance of the step. “It’s still a huge win for the industry,” he said, congratulating those involved.

Mindset Capital CEO Aaron Edelheit noted that major retailers and distributors have been cautious about joining the hemp beverage space. “We’ve seen regional players and big alcohol retailers like Total Wine explore it, but never a national chain on the scale of Target.”

Whether the limited test will evolve into a national rollout is still uncertain. For now, it’s being viewed as an early indicator of how mainstream retailers might embrace cannabis-infused products in the future.

Target’s move reflects a broader trend among major U.S. companies as they adapt to changing cannabis laws. Home Depot, for instance, recently removed marijuana from its employee drug screening process and stopped pre-employment testing for most positions.

Amazon has also shifted its stance. The company has supported both Republican- and Democratic-led efforts to legalize and regulate marijuana nationwide. In 2021, the company stopped testing most employees for marijuana use, aligning its policies with the push for federal reform.

In another development, the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) organization has partnered with a hemp company in a licensing deal that promotes marijuana drinks as alcohol alternatives. The beverages will soon be available at VFW posts nationwide, with proceeds supporting veteran programs and services.

Enterprises like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY) will be watching how the regulatory landscape in the U.S. evolves and how hemp firms and marijuana businesses react to any changes to the applicable laws at the federal level.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana Industry Group Goes to Court Challenging Michigan Tax Hike

A Michigan marijuana trade group has filed a lawsuit to challenge the state’s newly approved tax on wholesale cannabis sales. The legal complaint was submitted to the Michigan Court of Claims shortly after the measure became law.

According to the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association (MCIA), the new tax and the process behind its approval conflict with several parts of the state constitution. The association claims lawmakers failed to follow the proper procedure for changing the voter-approved cannabis law that established how the industry is taxed and regulated.

Michigan voters passed Proposal 1 in 2018, which created the state’s Regulation and Taxation of Marihuana Act. That ballot initiative legalized recreational marijuana for adults aged 21 and over and included a 10 percent excise tax on retail marijuana sales.

The trade association argues that the 2018 act is the only legal framework for taxing marijuana sales in the state. Under Michigan’s constitution, any modification to a voter-initiated law must either be approved by voters or gain a three-fourths majority vote in both chambers of the Legislature.

The recently enacted 24% wholesale tax was passed by the House in a 78-21 vote, with several members abstaining, and by the Senate with a narrow 19-17 margin. Those numbers fall short of the three-fourths threshold needed to alter a citizen-approved statute.

The MCIA further claims that lawmakers altered the bill’s purpose partway through the legislative process. Initially, the proposal focused on creating a fund for infrastructure and local government revenue without adding any new tax. Later, it was rewritten to include a 24 percent excise tax on wholesale cannabis sales. The group argues that this shift violates constitutional rules that prevent a bill’s purpose from being altered after introduction.

Additionally, the association contends that the new law breaks the state’s contracts clause, arguing it unfairly affects agreements and expectations among licensed cannabis businesses. The organization, which represents roughly 400 cannabis companies across Michigan, is asking the court to declare the tax invalid and block the state from enforcing it.

Ron Leix, the Michigan Treasury Department spokesperson, stated that the department had not yet received the lawsuit and therefore would not be commenting on the matter.

If the dispute advances, the case could eventually reach the state Supreme Court, where justices would decide whether the tax and the legislative process behind it are lawful. The outcome could also impact a broader budget agreement supported by both Republican and Democratic leaders.

The implementation of that tax hike would likely have adverse effects on the growth of the cannabis industry in the state, potentially preventing other ancillary companies within the ecosystem, such as those similar to Innovative Industrial Properties Inc. (NYSE: IIPR), from opening their doors and thriving.

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420 with CNW — What Older Adults Need to Know About Medical Marijuana

Marijuana use, both for medical and recreational reasons, has been increasing across the United States, including among people over 65. Most seniors turn to marijuana hoping to ease chronic pain, sleep problems, or anxiety. However, medical experts point out that there isn’t yet solid scientific agreement that marijuana is an effective treatment for these problems.

Experts at Stanford Medicine point out that using cannabis regularly at an older age can bring certain health risks. These risks may include heart disease, certain types of cancer, addiction, and worsening of memory or thinking problems that come with aging. For those thinking about trying cannabis, here are five important points to consider.

Today’s marijuana is far stronger than before

Today’s products are much stronger than those from decades ago. In the 1970s, marijuana typically contained 1% to 4% THC. Now, the average product contains about 20%, with some reaching up to 35%. Concentrates and edibles can contain as much as 90%, while synthetic versions have much stronger and more dangerous effects.

Due to the higher potency of today’s marijuana, accidental overuse among older adults is on the rise. A Canadian study comparing hospital visits before and after national legalization found that cannabis-related poisonings in adults over 65 nearly tripled after legalization. Much of this increase was linked to edibles, where effects can take longer to appear, leading people to unintentionally consume too much.

Marijuana can affect the heart and the brain

Although marijuana’s full health effects are still being studied, new research has shown a connection between frequent marijuana use and a higher likelihood of heart attacks (29%) and strokes (20%) among older adults.

While these risks are lower than those linked to smoking tobacco or drinking heavily, many cannabis users also use alcohol or tobacco, which can amplify the danger.

Smoking cannabis can also increase inflammation and may be associated with higher rates of neck, lung, and head cancers.

Older adults also process drugs more slowly. Because of this, marijuana can stay in their systems longer, extending its effects and increasing the chance of interactions with medications.

Marijuana can be addictive

A common misunderstanding is that marijuana cannot cause addiction. However, studies show that about 30% of frequent users develop cannabis use disorder. Symptoms include cravings, withdrawal, and difficulty cutting back.

For those who feel dependent, talking to a healthcare provider can help. Treatments such as cognitive behavioral therapy have been proven to assist people in regaining control.

Medical benefits are still being studied

Even though scientists are still studying the long-term effects of marijuana, some evidence suggests it may help with certain medical conditions. A study conducted in San Francisco in 2017 found that older adults between 51 and 72 used cannabis mainly to manage chronic conditions such as cancer or persistent pain.

While the FDA has not acknowledged marijuana’s medical benefits, it has approved a few specific compounds derived from cannabis. For example, CBD has been approved to treat some rare forms of epilepsy in children. Dronabinol, a synthetic version of THC, is approved to help cancer and HIV/AIDS patients with appetite loss and nausea.

Claims about cannabis treating anxiety, insomnia, or depression still lack solid evidence.

Discuss cannabis use with a healthcare professional

While experts may disagree about how beneficial cannabis is, most agree that seniors should have an open conversation with their healthcare providers before trying or continuing cannabis use. It’s far safer to discuss cannabis with a doctor than to rely on advice from a dispensary employee or experiment without guidance.

A doctor can help older adults evaluate whether marijuana is appropriate for their condition or if there are safer alternatives. They can also monitor for drug interactions or side effects that might not be obvious at first.

It is also helpful to read any literature provided by companies like TerrAscend Corp. (TSX: TSND) (OTCQX: TSNDF) so that one is adequately informed before choosing specific marijuana products to help with any symptoms you may be struggling with.

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420 with CNW — Michigan Lawmakers Pass Marijuana Tax Hike Proposal

The Michigan State Senate recently passed a measure introducing a 24% tax on wholesale marijuana sales. The new levy will be used to fix and maintain the state’s roads. The Senate passed House Bill 4951 last Friday, following the state House’s approval on September 25.

Once signed into law, the 24% levy on wholesale transactions will be added to the existing 10% excise tax already applied to marijuana products. In addition, customers continue to pay a 6 percent sales tax when purchasing cannabis from licensed dispensaries.

According to a legislative analysis, the additional tax is projected to generate roughly $420 million annually for infrastructure improvements. However, the report also predicts a potential 14% drop in marijuana sales as higher prices could discourage consumers or drive them toward unregulated markets.

The bill’s passage in the House last month sparked protests from cannabis advocates, who gathered outside the Capitol to voice their frustration. Many industry leaders and small business owners argue that the additional tax will cripple local marijuana companies, threaten jobs, and push more consumers toward the illegal market where prices are lower and regulation is nonexistent.

“Our industry isn’t a solution for their budget problems,” said Mike DiLaura, House of Dank’s general counsel. “As citizens and business owners, we need to stand together and say we’ve had enough.”

Representative Timmy Beson also criticized the measure, saying that raising taxes on marijuana businesses to pay for road work would hurt small business owners statewide. “We should be encouraging Michigan entrepreneurs, not making it harder for them to survive,” Beson said.

Beson also emphasized the impact on cultivators, saying that small farmers can’t simply raise prices to cover higher costs. He suggested that any new tax should be applied at the retail level instead, where prices are actually determined, and that it should be consistent across all types of marijuana retailers.

Leaflink’s vice president, Rodney Holcombe, added that the move undermines the progress Michigan’s marijuana market has made since legalization. “This industry has created more than 47,000 jobs, contributed consistent tax revenue, and boosted consumer safety,” Holcombe said. “This tax could undo that success, leading to fewer legal sales and more activity in the illicit market. We’re committed to working with the industry to find a fair path forward.”

HB 4951 now awaits Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s signature. She is expected to approve it as part of a broader agreement on the state budget.

Canadian marijuana firms like SNDL Inc. (NASDAQ: SNDL) may be sympathizing with their U.S.-based counterparts that have to deal with a patchwork of regulatory systems and additional challenges arising from a heavy tax burden.

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420 with CNW — How to Enhance Employee Retention Within the Marijuana Industry

High employee turnover can hurt any company, but it’s especially tough in the marijuana business, where skilled workers are needed everywhere—from the dispensary counter to the cultivation room. As competition grows and margins tighten, keeping reliable, knowledgeable staff is not just an advantage; it’s what keeps a business running.

The sector comes with unique challenges, from strict regulations to fast-changing markets. For owners and managers, holding onto good employees should be a top priority. A consistent, motivated team leads to smoother operations, happier customers, and stronger growth.

Here are nine ways to build loyalty and reduce staff turnover in your cannabis business.

Pay fairly and offer competitive benefits

Competitive pay is the baseline for keeping good workers. If wages don’t match living costs or local industry standards, people will look elsewhere. Do regular market checks to ensure your pay rates are fair for each position—whether it’s for trimmers, budtenders, or production staff.

Benefits matter too. Offer things like health coverage, paid time off, retirement options, and staff discounts to keep your team satisfied.

Support career development

People want to see a future with your company. Set up clear paths for advancement so employees know how to move up from entry-level roles to leadership positions. Offer mentorship, training, and certification programs that help employees advance their careers.

Additionally, promote from within to show employees that effort pays off and strengthen company loyalty.

Build a positive, inclusive culture

Toxic workplaces drive people away fast. Build a culture based on respect, openness, and teamwork. Encourage open communication and create a safe environment for employees to share feedback and concerns. Embrace diversity to ensure your team accurately reflects the community you serve.

Invest in training and ongoing education

The marijuana sector changes fast. New laws, products, and scientific developments appear regularly. Keeping your staff educated helps them feel confident and capable. Offer continuous training on product knowledge, compliance, and customer service so your team can perform at their best.

Recognize effort

Employees who feel appreciated are more likely to stay. Recognition doesn’t have to be expensive—a shout-out in a meeting, a thank you, a bonus program, or an employee-of-the-month award can go a long way toward building morale.

Comply with labor laws

Compliance isn’t optional. Stay informed about wage laws, overtime rules, and employee classifications. Working with HR or legal professionals who understand cannabis regulations can prevent your company from costly issues.

Support work-life balance

Overworked staff burn out quickly. Offer flexible schedules where possible and encourage people to use their time off. Avoid scheduling patterns that leave little rest between shifts.

Listen to employee feedback

Your team sees things from the front lines. Create open communication channels, like surveys or check-ins, to gather their input. Most importantly, act on their suggestions. Implementing their ideas makes workers feel more valued and connected to the company.

Communicate clearly and honestly

Keep your team informed about company goals, performance, and changes. Transparent communication helps employees feel included and secure, especially during uncertain times.

Keeping employees in the marijuana industry takes effort and intention. When you combine fair pay, growth opportunities, strong communication, and a healthy workplace culture, you create a team that’s loyal, engaged, and built to last.

Each firm has its own unique circumstances, so it would be eye-opening to get glimpses into the specific measures that leading companies like Green Thumb Industries Inc. (CSE: GTII) (OTCQX: GTBIF) leverage to ensure employee retention is high.

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420 with CNW — Nebraska GOP Works to Frustrate Voter-Passed Medical Cannabis Program

Nebraska marijuana officials have missed the deadline to issue medical cannabis growing licenses, creating fresh frustration for supporters of the voter-approved law. The setback is the latest sign of political resistance in several GOP-led states against marijuana legalization.

Residents voiced their anger and disappointment during a recent meeting with the state’s Medical Cannabis Commission. Among them was Lia Post, who lives with a painful nerve condition. She said marijuana helps her manage pain without relying on addictive opioids. “I don’t have any fight left in me,” she said, fighting back tears after hearing that licensing would again be postponed.

The commission’s three members, all appointed by Republican Governor Jim Pillen, said more time was needed to review applications. Critics, however, argue that state leaders are intentionally slowing the process to undermine the law voters overwhelmingly supported.

Across the country, 24 states and Washington, D.C., now allow recreational cannabis, and 40 permit medical use in some form. Even so, pushback continues in many conservative states. South Dakota lawmakers have tried to repeal ballot-approved medical cannabis laws, while Idaho legislators proposed a constitutional change to block citizens from legalizing it through ballot initiatives.

In Mississippi, a court ruling erased the medical cannabis law voters passed in 2020, leaving the state’s initiative system in limbo.

Opponents often claim cannabis is dangerous and could lead to wider drug abuse or impaired driving. Law enforcement agencies frequently cite the federal government’s stance that still classifies cannabis alongside LSD and heroin.

However, according to Karen O’Keefe of the Marijuana Policy Project, polls show that most Republican voters actually favor medical cannabis. “It’s a small but vocal group that still buys into old myths about marijuana,” she said. She pointed out that far more people die from prescription opioids each year than from marijuana use.

Nebraska’s law required that growing licenses be issued by October 1, but Governor Pillen removed two commissioners just days before the deadline. Critics say his replacements share his opposition to legalization. Pillen has denied trying to block access, saying his goal is to prevent overproduction and illegal sales. His office proposed limiting cultivation to 1,250 plants, a number industry advocates argue is far too low.

The new commission has already changed several parts of the voter-approved plan. It banned vaping, smoking, and edible products, all of which were allowed under the original law. It also added strict limits on how strong medical cannabis can be and placed new requirements on doctors who recommend it.

Attorney General Mike Hilgers is also challenging the initiative in court, calling parts of the petition process fraudulent. Although he lost several legal fights, he continues to argue that cannabis remains unsafe even under medical supervision.

Advocate Crista Eggers says the state’s actions betray voters. “If you’re one of the 71 percent who supported this, you should be outraged,” she said, warning that heavy restrictions will only push patients toward the black market.

Medical marijuana companies like Cresco Labs Inc. (CSE: CL) (OTCQX: CRLBF) operating in other states with legal medical marijuana markets will be hoping that their counterparts in Nebraska finally get licensed and open their stores to serve patients who need marijuana products for medical reasons.

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420 with CNW — Marijuana Stocks Surge as Trump Endorses CBD for Seniors

Cannabis-related stocks surged following remarks from U.S. President Donald Trump, who praised the potential health benefits of cannabidiol (CBD) for older adults in a recent social media post. Trump stated that CBD could help slow disease progression in senior patients, offering an alternative to traditional medications.

The statement comes a month after he hinted that his administration was considering reclassifying cannabis. Such a move could ease federal penalties and reduce some of the restrictions currently tied to cannabis use.

Canopy Growth shares surged more than 18 percent, Tilray Brands rocketed over 40 percent, Aurora Cannabis jumped about 25 percent, and Cronos Group gained nearly 16 percent. Cannabis-focused exchange-traded funds (ETFs) also saw a strong rally. The AdvisorShares fund and Roundhilleach advanced almost 22 percent, leaving both on pace for record-breaking quarterly gains of over 70 percent.

Cannabis policy in the United States has been shaped by shifting administrations. Trump previously signed the 2018 Farm Bill, which removed many restrictions on CBD and hemp production. However, cannabis is still classified as a Schedule I drug under federal law, a category reserved for substances considered highly addictive with no recognized medical use.

Efforts to change cannabis classification have been ongoing. Under President Joe Biden, the Health and Human Services Department recommended moving cannabis to Schedule III, a category for substances with a lower risk of dependence. Such a step would not legalize the drug but would ease restrictions on companies operating in the space.

Currently, federal tax code Section 280E prevents them from taking standard business deductions, leaving many firms at a disadvantage. Adjusting marijuana’s status could open doors to institutional investors and eventually allow cannabis companies to trade on major U.S. exchanges. Beyond taxes, reclassification could help narrow the divide between federal law and state-level legalization, which now exists in almost 40 states.

The industry remains volatile, with stock prices swinging alongside political developments. Canopy Growth, for instance, has seen nearly 50 percent of its value wiped out this year, while SNDL and Cronos have posted gains of over 50 percent, boosted in part by Monday’s rally.

Industry leaders welcomed the latest signals from Trump. A Canopy Growth Corp. (NASDAQ: CGC) (TSX: WEED) spokesperson said the company is encouraged by recognition of marijuana’s role in supporting wellness, particularly for seniors. They added that through its U.S. affiliate, Canopy is ready to expand if the regulatory environment improves. The entire industry is waiting on those regulatory improvements.

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420 with CNW — Large Trial Shows Marijuana Treats Chronic Back Pain

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), lower back pain affects more than 500 million individuals worldwide and is one of the primary causes of disability. Treatment options, however, remain limited, with most patients relying on common painkillers or opioids, which carry a high risk of dependence and addiction.

In recent years, the booming marijuana industry has promoted cannabidiol (CBD) and cannabis products as possible solutions for pain. However, experts have repeatedly warned that the scientific evidence supporting these claims has been weak.

A new large-scale clinical trial, published in Nature Medicine, may shift that conversation. The study was a phase 3, placebo-controlled trial, often considered the highest standard in medical research. It tested a marijuana-based extract known as VER-01 in over 800 participants who suffered from chronic lower back pain that had not improved with non-opioid medication.

For 12 weeks, patients were randomly given either a placebo or the extract and were then asked to rate their pain on a scale from 1 to 10. Those who took VER-01 reported their pain dropped by 1.9 points on average, compared to just 0.6 points in the placebo group. After six months, the improvements were even greater, with a 2.9-point decrease reported among the VER-01 users. Participants also experienced improved physical activity, better sleep, and a higher overall quality of life.

The study found no signs of addiction or serious harm. The most frequent side effects were mild issues like temporary dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, or nausea, which tended to ease with time. According to lead researcher Matthias Karst, none of the participants reported feeling “high” from the treatment.

Andrew Moore, a former Oxford University pain researcher not involved in the trial, praised the results, calling the study one of the strongest pieces of evidence to date that a compound from marijuana can genuinely ease pain. At the same time, he cautioned against assuming the extract is completely free of risks, noting that earlier claims about safety with other drugs have sometimes proven wrong.

Karst also highlighted that most marijuana-based products vary greatly in strength, purity, and consistency, making them difficult for doctors to prescribe safely. He also added that the results do not mean all cannabis or CBD products will provide the same benefits. VER-01, in contrast, was specifically designed to meet medical approval standards, meaning its results cannot be assumed for general cannabis use.

These clinical trial results are likely to provide additional credence to the conviction of companies like Aurora Cannabis Inc. (NASDAQ: ACB) (TSX: ACB) about the medicinal potential of the marijuana plant and its derivatives.

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