Technologies

Invention:

The present invention is a novel peptide used in the treatment of chronic pain with opioid therapy with a reduction of unwanted side effect such as mental clouding, nausea and emesis, and constipation. These peptide-based ligands are able to interact with CNS receptors separately to produce a higher analgesic effect with no opioid-induced tolerance.

Background:

Approximately 1.5 billion people worldwide suffer from chronic pain. Acute and chronic pain among military personnel and veterans is particularly prevalent, with some studies showing greater than 80% of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom vets suffering from chronic pain. Additionally, almost 30% of veterans seek treatment for chronic pain. Opioids are currently the primary treatment option for veterans suffering from chronis pain due to severe injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). The opioid therapy is accompanied with serious unwanted effects that makes the patient’s life miserable.