The invention covers novel macrocyclic peptides for treating pain through stimulation of opioid receptors that does not cause addiction. Opioid receptors are distributed widely throughout both the Central Nervous System and Peripheral Nervous System. Opiates that function as opioid receptor agonists such as oxycodone, morphine, opium and other compounds are known to have analgesic, and highly addictive effects.
The present invention utilizes molecules that have the same analgesic properties as currently available opiates; but these molecules have a significantly reduced risk of addiction. These peptides exhibit both agonist and weak antagonist activity on opioid receptors. As a result, the peptides carry out analgesic effects while decreasing tolerance and the likelihood of addiction.
Currently available opiates exhibit only agonist activity on the opioid receptors. Thus, even though they do have analgesic properties, they are also highly addictive. The peptides of this particular invention have a much lower risk of addiction due to their antagonist activity, while still carrying out the same analgesic functions of currently available opiates.
APPLICATIONS:
- Used to treat inflammatory pain
- Used to treat neuropathic pain
- Used to treat drug addiction, including opiate addiction
- These peptides could be developed as therapies to treat anxiety and depression
BENEFITS:
- Individuals in need of analgesic therapy and/or addiction therapy could use this method with a minimal risk of developing an addiction