The Food and Drug Administration approved a new type of pain reliever for the first time in decades. It’s a new drug that could help combat America’s opioid crisis.
On Thursday, Jan. 30, the agency signed off on Journavx, otherwise known as suzetrigine, to treat short-term pain that often follows surgery or injuries.
The newly approved medication works as an alternative to not just opioids but also over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen as well.
According to the CDC, pain medications are the most prescribed type of drug in U.S. hospitals.
The company that developed the new medication, Vertex Pharmaceuticals, said its research showed about 80 million Americans fill prescriptions each year to treat severe pain. Vertex said about half of those prescriptions are written for opioid medications.
How does suzetrigine work?
While opioid medications work by dulling the sensation of pain in the brain, suzetrigine works by preventing pain-signaling nerves around the body from firing in the first place.
On top of that, it doesn’t create the “high” some opioids are known for.
Will my insurance cover suzetrigine?
It’s not yet clear if insurance companies will cover this new drug.
Right now, Vertex has set a wholesale cost of $15.50 per 50 mg pill. That’s much more expensive than comparable opioids, which are often available as generics for $1 or less per pill.
Vertex previously said patient assistance programs would be available.
