Vapogenix Technology
Vapogenix is focused on developing a new class of non-opioid analgesics by creating novel formulations of well-known medications to secure a share of the more than $30 billion spent worldwide each year on prescription pharmaceuticals to treat pain. While hundreds of pain medications exist, the need for alternative analgesics is great. Most pain medications work systemically, but many pain symptoms are localized. Vapogenix’ lead compound, a commonly used systemic drug formulated in a novel way for local delivery, has been effective in animal studies at providing local pain relief without systemic side effects. The Company’s researchers and collaborators also are exploring the potential of several other locally and regionally effective formulations which show promise in reducing various types of pain.
The company believes that its novel pain management compounds have the potential to address one of the most critical needs in pain management-analgesia with low/no side effects. While many medications are highly effective in treating pain, these drugs also expose patients to systemic side effects. For example, opioids when used systemically, are effective in reducing pain, but also cause problems such as:
- Significant cognitive impairment, constipation and nausea;
- Overdose (abuse, accidental or pain-relief seeking) which can lead to life-threatening respiratory depression; and
- Addiction and a potential for drug-abuse and diversion.
Non-opioid analgesics also have drawbacks. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen) have significant gastric, renal and cardiovascular side effects, while acetaminophen can cause hepatic toxicity. The FDA has issued strong warnings about the potential serious adverse effects of overuse of common NSAIDs such as naproxen and ibuprofen. The FDA also has taken many other actions during the past five years to ensure and promote proper and safe use of these non-opioid analgesics, including recently issuing warnings about acetaminophen. Even topical anesthetic and analgesic preparations formulated to treat relatively minor pain have been subject recently to increasingly strong FDA warnings about potential serious adverse reactions.
While it is unfortunate that many regularly used pain medications are coming under increased scrutiny over their potential for adverse side effects, Vapogenix believes that this increased awareness creates a tremendous opportunity for new pain medications that can act locally, without the possibility of adverse systemic effects. The company is hopeful that its novel compounds will one day play a significant role is addressing this critical need and is encouraged by the positive results already demonstrated in its animal studies.