WASHINGTON (AP) — For decades, patients seeking medication for pain have had two choices: over-the-counter drugs like aspirin or powerful prescription opioids like oxycodone.
Opioid prescriptions have plummeted over the last decade as doctors have become more attuned to the risks of addiction and misuse during the country’s ongoing drug epidemic.
Vertex Pharmaceuticals recently reported positive results for a non-opioid painkiller, one of several medications the Boston-based drugmaker has been developing for various forms of pain. Patients taking the drug after surgery experienced more pain relief than those getting a placebo, although the drug didn’t meet a secondary goal of outperforming treatment with an opioid.
The Associated Press spoke with Vertex’s chief scientist Dr. David Altshuler about the company’s research and development plans. The interview has been edited for length and clarity.
More than 40 workers trapped after a building under construction collapsed in South Africa
Ariana Grande showcases legs in floral mini dress as she holds hands with Wicked co
In Pictures: Rare celestial event totally eclipsed by thick cloud in Hong Kong
The Golden Bachelor couple Gerry Turner and Theresa Nist are getting a divorce
Wisconsin judge dismisses lawsuit challenging state's new wolf management plan
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce doing Coachella in style! They will be staying at a TOP luxury members
How DO you deal with a problem like Gary Lineker?
Merlier wins Giro Stage 3 after Pogacar fires up finale and stays in the lead
Fans slam 'JOKE' of a penalty given to Bukayo Saka in footage of the Arsenal star winning a spot