Prialt
Prialt (also known as Ziconotide) is a non-opioid analgesic used for the management of severe chronic pain. It is derived from the venom of the marine cone snail species Conus magus.
History[edit | edit source]
Prialt was developed by Elan Corporation and approved by the FDA in December 2004. It is the first in a new class of pain medications that work by blocking N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels.
Mechanism of Action[edit | edit source]
Prialt works by blocking N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels on the primary nociceptive (pain) pathways in the brain. This prevents the release of pain neurotransmitters in the brain, thereby reducing the sensation of pain.
Administration[edit | edit source]
Prialt is administered through intrathecal administration, which involves injection into the spinal fluid. This method of administration is used because Prialt does not cross the blood-brain barrier well.
Side Effects[edit | edit source]
Common side effects of Prialt include dizziness, nausea, confusion, and headache. Severe psychiatric symptoms and neurological impairment may occur if the drug is stopped abruptly.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Analgesic
- Ziconotide
- Conus magus
- Elan Corporation
- Food and Drug Administration
- N-type calcium channel
- Intrathecal administration
- Blood-brain barrier
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