Medical Uses
Journavx (suzetrigine) is a first-in-class, oral, non-opioid, highly selective pain signal inhibitor that is selective for NaV1.8 relative to other NaV channels. NaV1.8 is a voltage-gated sodium channel that is selectively expressed in peripheral pain-sensing neurons (nociceptors), where its role is to transmit pain signals (action potentials). Because this therapeutic drug blocks pain signals only found in the periphery, not in the brain, it provides effective relief of pain without the limitations of currently available therapies, including the addictive potential of opioids.
The twice-daily Journavx is approved for the treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe acute pain.
Recommended Dosage: The recommended starting dose of Journavx is 100 mg orally. This medication is available in a tablet formulation which should be swallowed whole – do not chew or crush the tablets. For optimal beginning dosage absorption, take at least one hour before or two hours after meals. Drinkable clear liquids are permitted during this time, including water, tea, apple juice, and broth, as well as black coffee. After your first dose, you may take 50mg of Journavx every twelve hours following twelve hours. These doses can be taken with or without food.
Medications that contain grapefruit should not be consumed during treatment. To achieve the best therapeutic outcome, this medication should be used for the least amount of time necessary. Treatment of acute pain that is rated as moderate to severe should not exceed 14 days of this medication. Doing so has not been studied.