Kyoto University innovates non-habit forming pain relief drug
In a groundbreaking development, researchers at Kyoto University have discovered a powerful non-addictive painkiller that could significantly reduce opioid use in medical settings. This new compound, yet to be named, has shown promising results in both animal trials and human clinical studies.
The focus of this research is Japan, where the team aims to put the new painkiller into practical use as early as 2028. The compound works by increasing the secretion of noradrenaline, a neurotransmitter that suppresses pain. When administered to mice and monkeys, it had pain-relieving effects comparable to those of opioids, without the adverse side effects.
Pain relievers are typically divided into two categories: nonopioids and opioids. Opioids, such as fentanyl and morphine, are commonly used for severe pain but cause side effects such as breathing problems and are addictive. In the U.S., about 80,000 people died from opioid overdose in 2023, highlighting the urgent need for a safer alternative.
A clinical trial conducted at Kyoto University Hospital involving 20 patients who had undergone lung cancer surgery yielded promising results for the new painkiller. Professor Hagiwara, a member of the Kyoto University team, stated that if the compound is put into practical use, it could significantly reduce opioid use in medical settings.
Professor Makoto Tsuda, a neuropharmacology expert at Kyushu University, further suggested that if the pain reliever demonstrates efficacy in treating chronic pain, it has the potential for widespread use. The Kyoto University team plans to conduct a clinical trial involving hundreds of participants in the United States as early as next year.
However, it's important to note that the search results do not provide information about the researchers involved in the development of this new painkiller. Nevertheless, the potential impact of this discovery on the medical field and public health cannot be overstated.
As we await further developments, the anticipation for this non-addictive painkiller grows, offering hope for a future where pain management is safer and more effective.
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