Summary
Neuropathic low back pain originates from injury to nerves related to the low back. This injury results in a cascade of events, one of which involves the modulation of ion channels potentially effected by a new drug, Ralfinamide. The results of the phase IIb/III trials using Ralfinamide will help confirm safety and efficacy of this promising new drug and perhaps ultimately increase the treatment armamentarium for physicians treating the debilitating condition of neuropathic low back pain.
Analysis
The development of neuropathic low back pain represents a complex pathway of changes occurring on multiple levels both in space and time. Indicative of its complexity, the current treatment modalities include, anti-inflammatory medications, analgesics, topicals, anti-epilepsy drugs, anti-depressants and physical therapy modalities to name a few. Each modality attempts to act at different segments of the neuropathic pain pathway to interrupt its progression.
The new drug, Ralfinamide, which has entered Phase IIb/III clinical trials, acts by modulating ion channels at the nerve level. It represents a novel approach to attacking the neuropathic pain pathway. It has been found to be effective in neuropathic pain animal models. And, with much scientific evidence supporting the need to effect ion channel transport in neuropathic pain, Ralfinamide looks quite promising.
The results of the Phase IIb/III trials will further determine the safety and efficacy of Ralfinamide. If its conclusions mirror expectations, patients, treating physicians, employers, and Newron stand to benefit greatly.
