Every so often, a new pain medication sparks excitement—right now, that drug is suzetrigine. As a novel non-opioid treatment, it’s generating a lot of interest for its ability to manage acute pain effectively. This is a significant development, as safer alternatives to opioids are critically needed.

‍

However, when it comes to chronic pain, it’s important to take a step back and consider the bigger picture. Long-term pain isn’t just about an injury or nerve signals—it involves multiple factors, including changes in the nervous system, emotions, lifestyle, and overall well-being. While suzetrigine may be a useful tool, it’s not a standalone solution.

‍

What Suzetrigine Can (and Can’t) Do

‍

Suzetrigine works by blocking NaV1.8 voltage-gated sodium channels, which play a role in nociceptive and inflammatory pain signaling. This makes it a promising option for managing acute pain, such as post-surgical or injury-related pain.

However, chronic pain is more complex, often involving:

• Central sensitization, where the nervous system amplifies pain signals over time
• Inflammation and immune responses that sustain pain beyond initial injury
• Emotional and psychological factors that can influence pain perception
• Movement and lifestyle factors that affect pain levels and function
• ‍

Current clinical trial data on suzetrigine is focused on acute pain, and while it is a promising advancement, there is no strong evidence yet that it will effectively treat chronic pain conditions such as neuropathy, fibromyalgia, or centralized pain syndromes.The Most Effective Approach to Chronic PainResearch consistently shows that the best long-term relief comes from a comprehensive, whole-person approach that includes:

‍

• Evidence-based medical treatments, including medications when appropriate
• Physical therapy and movement-based care to restore function and reduce pain
• Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and emotional support to address the brain’s role in pain processing
• Lifestyle strategies, including sleep, nutrition, and stress management
• Social connection and meaningful activities to improve overall well-being

‍

Medications like suzetrigine may help reduce certain pain symptoms, but they are most effective when integrated into a multimodal treatment plan that addresses the full complexity of chronic pain.

‍

‍The Future of Pain Care: More Than Just Medication

‍

‍Suzetrigine is an important step forward in the search for safer, more effective pain relief, especially for acute conditions. However, the future of chronic pain care is not about a single breakthrough drug—it’s about combining the best available treatments into a personalized, well-rounded plan.Instead of relying on one medication, we should see suzetrigine as one piece of a much larger puzzle. By integrating innovative treatments with proven whole-person strategies, we can ensure that patients receive the most effective and compassionate care possible.