In the face of the opioid crisis, a new molecule is raising hopes: suzetrigine, a non-addictive analgesic recently approved in the United States. Its innovative mode of action could revolutionize the management of acute pain.
Suzetrigine is a new non-opioid analgesic recently approved by the FDA. It acts by specifically blocking the Nav1.8 sodium channel, thereby preventing the transmission of pain signals to the brain without causing dependence.
Dr Anne Marie Pinard, Head of the Chronic Pain Service at CHU de Québec-Université Laval and member of the QPRN, highlights the interest of this molecule due to its innovative mechanism of action. She points to the possibility of targeting a specific subunit of sodium channels and administering it in tablet form.
In clinical trials, suzetrigine proved to be as effective as opioids in relieving certain types of post-operative pain, with fewer side effects and no risk of dependence. Its arrival on the market represents a significant advance in the context of the opioid crisis, although its efficacy against chronic pain remains uncertain.
Although the drug is approved in the U.S., its arrival in Canada will depend on Health Canada’s assessment.
