In a historic leap for medicine, the FDA has approved the first-ever non-opioid drug for treating moderate to severe acute pain. Called suzetrigine and sold under the name Journavx, this groundbreaking medication offers powerful pain relief without the risks of addiction or dependency that come with traditional opioids. Developed by Vertex Pharmaceuticals, it works by targeting NaV1.8 pain signals in the peripheral nervous system, avoiding the central nervous system entirely.
This targeted approach allows Journavx to match the pain-fighting power of opioids for short-term issues like surgery recovery or trauma—without the side effects or long-term dangers. For millions of patients and physicians seeking safer alternatives, this marks the beginning of a new chapter in pain management. With fewer risks and equal effectiveness, this approval may change how pain is treated in hospitals and clinics around the world.