Suzetrigine
JOURNAVX
What it isSelective Nav1.8 blocker acting on peripheral nociceptors; acute pain.
Why this onePeripheral sodium-channel analgesia avoids opioid euphoria and respiratory depression.
What limits itAnalgesia is moderate rather than opioid-equivalent. CYP3A4 interactions and cost can constrain use.
FDA-approved for
- acute pain (2025)
FDA label
Read the full label on DailyMed ↗
| FDA dosing | Population | Start | Target | Max |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moderate-to-severe acute pain | Adults | 100 mg once, then 50 mg BID (q12h) | 50 mg q12h | 50 mg q12h |
Renal Undefined
Hepatic Moderate (Child-Pugh B): reduced dosage; severe (Child-Pugh C): avoid use
Instructions
- Swallow tablets whole; do not chew or crush
- Starting 100 mg dose on empty stomach ≥1 h before or 2 h after food (clear liquids allowed); maintenance 50 mg with or without food
- First maintenance dose 12 h after starting dose
- Avoid grapefruit food/drink during treatment
- Reduce dosage with moderate CYP3A inhibitors
- Not studied beyond 14 days
Contraindications
- Concomitant use of strong CYP3A inhibitors
Cautions
- Moderate/severe hepatic impairment — avoid in severe; reduced dose in moderate
- Increased adverse-reaction risk with strong/moderate CYP3A inhibitors
- CYP3A inducer — may reduce efficacy of sensitive CYP3A substrates
Adverse reactions
- Pruritus
- Muscle spasms
- Increased creatine phosphokinase
- Rash
Pregnancy No human data; animal studies showed effects on implantation, pregnancy maintenance, and pup mortality
Lactation No human data; present in animal milk
NO BOXED WARNINGS
Principal riskEfficacy is moderate rather than opioid-equivalent
Cost, est. cash$900–$1,100/14-day course
Generic entry2039 est.
Classes and tags
Clinical profile
Legacy pregnancy categoryNot assigned — PLLR-era drug
Defining liabilityDizziness, somnolence and CYP3A-related interaction risk; broader postmarketing safety experience remains limited.
Mechanism of action: Suzetrigine ballicule
Open Suzetrigine in the interactive console ↗
Memory aids: mascots and interaction avatars
