Scientists find a way to prevent, reverse chronic pain [View all]

[UglyGreed]

Pain is a leading cause of disability in the US, affecting more Americans than cancer, diabetes and heart disease combined. But in a new study, researchers say they have discovered an "off switch" for pain, paving the way for new treatments.

The research team, led by Daniela Salvemini, professor of pharmacological and physiological sciences at Saint Louis University, MO, publish their findings in the journal Brain.

According to Prof. Salvemini and her team, there are few successful treatments for chronic pain. "The most successful pharmacological approaches for the treatment of chronic pain rely on engagement of endogenous circuits involving opioid, adrenergic and calcium channel mechanisms," the researchers note.

These medications, however, can cause severe side effects - such as muscle pain, anxiety, irritability and even drug tolerance and addiction. This can lead to discontinued use, reduced quality of life and inadequate pain relief.

Past studies have shown that a drug called adenosine may be effective for pain relief in humans, but the medication activates an array of circuits, or "pathways," causing a number of side effects. It has been unclear as to which specific pathway mediates the pain-relieving effects of adenosine, so Prof. Salvemini and her team wanted to find out.

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/286229.php