A Non-narcotic Drug for Fracture Pain

Background

• Problem: Pain management following orthopaedic surgeries includes the use of opioids, however, these drugs are highly addictive
• Solution: A non-narcotic drug that helps eliminate or reduce chronic pain outcomes following fractures
• Unique value proposition: The drug reduces the need for opioid use for post-fracture pain management

Technology Overview

Opioids are often used for pain management after orthopaedic surgeries; however, these drugs are highly addictive. Furthermore, the use of non-narcotic drugs such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for fracture pain is of limited use because data suggests that NSAIDs inhibit early fracture healing. Therefore, it is crucial to identify analgesics that do not compromise bone healing or contribute to chronic pain conditions.

IU researchers have discovered that calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) inhibitors reduce pain caused by bone fracture without impeding healing of the fracture. The method comprises administering a therapeutically effective amount of a CGRP inhibitor to the patient which will decrease the need for opioids for post-fracture pain management.

Benefits

• Reduces the need for opioid usage for post-fracture pain management
• Eliminates or reduces chronic pain

Applications

• Fracture pain management
• Drug therapeutic