Ziconotide acetate

Ziconotide Acetate is a synthetic form of a naturally occurring peptide found in the venom of the marine cone snail, Conus magus. It is a non-opioid analgesic used for the management of severe chronic pain.

History

Ziconotide Acetate was discovered in the early 1980s by Baldomero Olivera, a biochemist at the University of Utah. The drug was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2004 under the brand name Prialt.

Pharmacology

Ziconotide Acetate works by blocking N-type voltage-sensitive calcium channels, which are located in the brain and spinal cord. By blocking these channels, the drug prevents the release of pain signal neurotransmitters, thereby reducing the sensation of pain.

Clinical Use

Ziconotide Acetate is used for the management of severe chronic pain in patients for whom intrathecal (IT) therapy is warranted, and who are intolerant of or refractory to other treatments, such as systemic analgesics, adjunctive therapies, or IT morphine.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Ziconotide Acetate include dizziness, nausea, confusion, and headache. Serious side effects may include hallucinations, severe psychiatric symptoms and meningitis.

Contraindications

Ziconotide Acetate is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to ziconotide or any of its components. It should not be used in patients with a pre-existing history of psychosis.

See Also

• Analgesic
• Chronic Pain
• Conus magus
• Baldomero Olivera
• Food and Drug Administration