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Placebo followed by zicotinide

Ziconotide is a selective N-type calcium channel blocker that reduces neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release in the spinal cord to alleviate chronic pain.

Ziconotide is a selective N-type calcium channel blocker that reduces neuronal excitability and neurotransmitter release in the spinal cord to alleviate chronic pain. Used for Chronic pain in patients intolerant to or refractory to other analgesics (intrathecal administration).

At a glance

Mechanism of action

Ziconotide is a synthetic peptide derived from cone snail venom that selectively blocks N-type voltage-gated calcium channels on presynaptic nerve terminals in the spinal cord. By inhibiting calcium influx, it reduces the release of pain neurotransmitters (substance P and glutamate) into the synaptic space, thereby interrupting pain signal transmission. This mechanism allows for potent analgesia without the systemic side effects associated with opioids.

Approved indications

• Chronic pain in patients intolerant to or refractory to other analgesics (intrathecal administration)

Common side effects

• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Confusion
• Headache
• Cognitive impairment
• Ataxia
• Meningitis (aseptic)

Key clinical trials

• Intrathecal Ziconotide Antalgic Efficacy for Severe Refractory Neuropathic (PHASE3)

Primary sources

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Competitive intelligence

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• Placebo followed by zicotinide CI brief — competitive landscape report
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• Hospices Civils de Lyon portfolio CI