Inside Vertex’s decades-long quest to develop a new class of non-opioid painkillers

SAN DIEGO — For decades, the biotech industry has tried — and repeatedly failed — to develop new and effective painkillers without the addictive potential of opioids. But there’s reason to think that could begin to change soon.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals is on the cusp of announcing results from late-stage trials of a drug that precisely blocks pain-sensing neurons from signaling the brain. The company will announce data early next year from Phase 3 studies testing the molecule’s effectiveness at treating post-surgical pain. And before the end of the month, Vertex will share results from a mid-stage trial in people with diabetes who have chronic nerve pain.

There’s much riding on the outcome of these studies, both for patients and for Vertex. Pain is one of the most common and debilitating symptoms and is the leading cause of disability globally.

Get unlimited access to award-winning journalism and exclusive events.

Subscribe

Log In