Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Chronic pain is defined as pain lasting more than three months and can affect daily life, including mood, sleep, work, and relationships. It may present differently among individuals, from sharp to dull sensations, and may be localized or widespread. Millions of Americans experience chronic pain, prompting ongoing searches for effective treatments.
Current treatments include medications such as opioids, medical procedures, devices, physical therapy, and complementary health practices like acupuncture, yoga, and massage. However, treatments may not fully alleviate pain and can have drawbacks. Opioid drugs, which attach to opioid receptors, have serious side effects, including overdose, death, and addiction risks. Due to these concerns, opioid prescriptions have declined, though some patients remain without adequate pain relief.
In response, researchers, including Dr. Steven Olson and his team, are developing non-opioid medications to provide effective pain relief without opioid dangers. They are targeting other types of G protein-coupled receptors involved in pain relief. One target is the neurotensin receptor 1, which can reduce pain but poses challenges, as drugs mimicking neurotensin may cause severe drops in body temperature and high blood pressure.
Olson’s research has identified two molecules that fine-tune the response of neurotensin receptor 1, offering a promising direction for safer pain treatments. This approach aims to refine receptor activity to maximize pain relief while minimizing side effects.
Meanwhile, some individuals use complementary methods alongside conventional care to help manage chronic pain and improve function. These include acupuncture, chiropractic care, massage therapy, tai chi, and yoga, which may serve as adjuncts to medical treatments.