PDM-07 - Break the Mold in Pain Biology: The Promise of a New Mechanism That May Overcome the Shortfalls of Current Moderate to Severe Pain Medications

Moderate to severe acute and chronic pain is a significant public health challenge. Often opioids are the only effective pharmacologic options, however, the widespread prescription of opioids has contributed to the opioid crisis by exposing more patients to risks of misuse, dependence, and overdose. Concerns over misuse have led to hesitation among patients and prescribers, resulting in untreated or undertreated pain. 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. Research shows that dual NOP/MOP receptor (dual-NMR) agonism provides potent analgesia with significantly fewer side effects compared to pure MOP agonism. Dual-NMR agonists show promise in treating various pain types with minimal addiction risk, potentially addressing both the opioid crisis and the problem of undertreated pain.

Lunch will be provided. Session not certified for credit.

This course is sponsored by Tris Pharma.