A groundbreaking experimental painkiller developed by researchers at Duke University holds promise in combating the opioid epidemic. Known as “SBI-810,” this innovative compound provides powerful pain relief without the addictive side effects associated with traditional opioids.
According to Dr. Ru-Rong Ji, lead researcher, SBI-810’s unique mechanism targets a specific receptor in the brain and spinal cord, bypassing the high that often leads to addiction. This approach allows for more focused treatment, reducing the risk of adverse reactions.
The drug has shown exceptional results in clinical trials on mice, demonstrating its efficacy in treating various types of pain, including surgical incisions, bone fractures, and nerve injuries. Notably, it outperformed existing painkillers like gabapentin and oliceridine, with fewer side effects reported.
The development of SBI-810 is timely, as the opioid epidemic continues to affect millions of Americans. While overdose deaths have decreased in recent years, over 80,000 people still lost their lives to opioids last year alone.
With human trials on the horizon, researchers hope this innovative compound will provide a safer alternative for treating both short-term and chronic pain. As over a third of Americans live with chronic pain, SBI-810’s potential is significant in addressing this growing public health concern.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/painkiller-opioid-epidemic-study-b2754007.html