New Mechanism May Overcome the Shortfalls of Current Pain Medication

Drs. Jeffrey Gudin, MD, Charles E. Argoff, MD, and Roberto Ciccocioppo, PhD examine the challenges of managing moderate to severe pain, where opioids are often the only effective option but come with significant risks, including misuse, dependence, and overdose. Opioids primarily activate the µopioid peptide (MOP) receptor, providing potent pain relief but causing severe side effects like respiratory depression, euphoria, and dependence. Alternatives to opioids are needed, and the discovery of the nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor offers new possibilities. The panel explores emerging alternatives, specifically dual NOP/MOP receptor (dual-NMR) agonism, which show promise in providing potent pain relief with fewer side effects. This approach could offer a safer option for treating pain while addressing the opioid crisis and the issue of undertreated pain. Watch now!