017 - Suzetrigine - a non-opioid, non-NSAID sodium channel blocker for pain

In this episode we discuss suzetrigine, a novel, non-opioid pain medication that specifically targets the NaV1.8 sodium channel to manage acute pain. The document explores its pharmacological mechanisms, highlighting how it blocks pain signals without causing the addictive or severe side effects associated with traditional opioids like respiratory depression or sedation. It reviews preclinical findings and clinical trial results, showcasing suzetrigine’s effectiveness in reducing postoperative pain with a favorable safety profile. The manuscript concludes by discussing suzetrigine’s potential to address the opioid crisis by providing a safer alternative for pain management, while also emphasizing the need for further research into its long-term applications.