Suzetrigine, marketed under the brand name Journavx, is a recently approved non-opioid analgesic for the treatment of moderate to severe acute pain in adults. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved this medication on January 30, 2025. <br /><br />Mechanism of Action:<br /><br />Suzetrigine functions by inhibiting the voltage-gated sodium channel 1.8 (NaV1.8), which plays a crucial role in transmitting pain signals through the peripheral nervous system. By targeting this specific pathway, suzetrigine reduces pain without affecting the central nervous system, thereby minimizing the risk of addiction associated with opioid treatments. <br /><br />Clinical Trials and Efficacy:<br /><br />The efficacy of suzetrigine was demonstrated in two randomized, double-blind, placebo- and active-controlled trials involving patients undergoing abdominoplasty and bunionectomy surgeries. Participants receiving suzetrigine reported a statistically significant reduction in pain compared to those given a placebo. <br /><br />Safety and Side Effects:<br /><br />In clinical studies, suzetrigine was generally well-tolerated. The most commonly reported side effects included itching, muscle spasms, elevated blood levels of creatine phosphokinase, and rash. Patients are advised to avoid concomitant use with strong CYP3A inhibitors and to refrain from consuming grapefruit products while taking suzetrigine. <br /><br />Availability and Pricing:<br /><br />Journavx is available in 50 mg oral tablets. Each tablet is priced at approximately $15.50, which is higher than many generic opioid alternatives. <br /><br />The approval of suzetrigine offers a promising new option for acute pain management, providing effective relief without the risks associated with opioid medications.<br /><br />م.م زيدون عبدالوهاب<br /><br /><br /><br />AL_mustaqbal University is the first university in Iraq