Vertex Pharmaceuticals has received FDA approval for Journavx, a groundbreaking non-opioid pain medication described as non-addictive.

The list price for Journavx is set at $15.50 per pill, which is considerably higher than many over-the-counter and generic medications.

Previously used as a local anesthetic, Journavx is now available in pill form for the first time, offering a new option for pain management.

Experts highlight that Journavx does not produce the high, cravings, or withdrawal symptoms associated with traditional opioids, addressing significant concerns in pain management.

Although effective, Journavx was found to be less effective than the combination of opioids and acetaminophen in clinical studies.

This innovative drug targets pain-signaling pathways in the peripheral nervous system, effectively reducing pain before it reaches the brain.

Journavx is specifically designed for short-term relief of moderate to severe acute pain following surgeries or injuries, marking the first new pain treatment in over two decades.

In clinical trials, Journavx demonstrated high patient satisfaction, with 83% reporting good to excellent pain relief and achieving around a 50% reduction in pain.

Advocates believe this medication could significantly impact patients' lives by delaying the need for opioids, particularly for young individuals undergoing surgery.

Despite its promise, obtaining insurance coverage for Journavx may be challenging, as patients might need prior authorization from their healthcare providers.

Common side effects include itching, muscle spasms, rash, and increased creatine phosphokinase levels, along with potential temporary fertility issues.

The approval of Journavx is seen as a historic milestone for the approximately 80 million Americans prescribed medication for acute pain each year.