In the wake of the opioid crisis, finding long-term, non-addictive solutions to manage chronic pain in the U.S. has become an urgent priority for biopharma, physicians, and researchers. With millions of lives on the line, the search is on for alternatives that offer lasting relief without the dangers of addiction.
At the Biotechnology Innovation Organization’s (BIO) panel in New York City, a group of experts explored the complexities of pain and addiction therapeutics. Questions were asked about the nuances of treatments and their efficacy in treating these conditions. With the ever-evolving landscape of therapeutics, the panelists were able to provide insight into how to best approach the challenges that come with treating chronic pain and addiction.
The challenge for panelists and patients alike is to overcome the stigma of addiction. While addiction is often an unfortunate consequence of the opioid industry and overzealous physicians, it can be difficult to garner the necessary support for those who are struggling with addiction.
When it comes to the bottom line, money plays a major role. Ultimately, the amount of money available will dictate the possibilities and outcomes.
“At the release of the BIO report, Vice President of Industry Research at BIO, David Thomas, spoke on the importance of the findings. According to Thomas, the report is a game-changer for the industry, providing insight into the development of biotechnology and its potential to revolutionize the world.”
When it comes to efficacy and success rates, it’s important to remember that not all companies are successful due to efficacy alone. In fact, a financial failure is taken into account when measuring success rates. This means that even if a company does not achieve success in terms of efficacy, it can still be counted as a success in the overall picture.
Small biotech companies are struggling to get the financing they need to take promising drugs to the next level. Without the extra funding for clinical trials, the chances of finding a cure for serious illnesses diminish. It’s a critical issue that needs to be addressed, as these companies are on the brink of making tremendous breakthroughs.
Dive into the gripping Netflix specials that dive into the heartbreaking Opioid Epidemic. Experience the human cost of this crisis and gain a deeper understanding of what has caused it. Get a first-hand look at how this epidemic has impacted individuals, families, and communities across the nation.
Documentaries like “Dopesick” have opened the public’s eyes to the challenges and struggles faced by the chronic pain population and the medical machine they encounter. Through these films, viewers gain a greater understanding of the physical and emotional toll that chronic pain can take.
The patient’s total is heavy, but their next steps are lighter – and we’ll be there every step of the way to make sure their journey is as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Patient Population
The panel addressed the common and stigmatized zeitgeist surrounding the addicted population head-on. They reflected thoughtfully and determinedly sought ways to secure venture capital to better serve their populations. With this aim in mind, they worked to challenge the prevailing notions and create a more equitable system for non-addicted chronic pain sufferers.
At the preclinical stage, one major challenge researchers are facing is the lack of predictive power of preclinical data for clinical success. One way we are addressing this issue is by exploring more humanized models and utilizing human tissue models and samples to improve future clinical success rates.
A startling new study from BIO has revealed that a staggering 77% of clinical drug treatment programs active just two years ago in 2017 have since been discontinued or otherwise become inactive.
Why is this?
The recent white paper from BIO outlined several key factors to consider when making decisions. These included: examining the context of the decision, recognizing the potential implications, evaluating the risk and benefit, understanding the stakeholders involved, and considering the resources available. By taking these factors into account, decision makers can make more informed and effective choices.
Pain drug programs have seen a sharp drop in activity, with the number of active clinical studies plunging by a staggering 44% from 220 in 2017 to just 124. Although addiction programs have increased, the number remains low, with only 39 in place.
The odds of success in drug trials are low: only 0.7% of pain-relief drugs entering clinical trials receive the final stamp of approval from the FDA, compared to the average success rate of 6.5% across all disease areas.
Pain and addiction companies only received 1.3% of total therapeutic venture capital investment in 2021, highlighting the need for more investment in this area.
How to Find New, Non-addictive Therapeutics
For Hernan Bazan, M.D., co-founder and CEO of South Rampart Pharma, the mission to find non-addictive solutions to chronic pain is an arduous but necessary one, particularly in light of the fact that existing efforts have resulted in a staggering 75% failure rate.
The venture capital industry is a vital source of investment for startups and small businesses, but their willingness to invest in the space is being affected. This has the potential to stifle innovation and hinder economic growth.
When investors witness the high attrition rates of some drugs, they understandably become apprehensive. However, we at SRP-001 are thankful to investors who are taking a bold stance and supporting our efforts in creating top-notch medicines. SRP-001 is an example of how their dedication is helping to pioneer groundbreaking treatments.
Diem Nguyen, CEO of Xalud Therapetucs, echoed Bazan’s sentiment, highlighting the significance of the issue at hand.
Real-world clinical trials often fail to accurately reflect the complexity of a patient’s condition, posing a major challenge to both drug manufacturers and regulatory bodies. To bridge the gap between preclinical research and clinical application, it is necessary for all stakeholders to collaborate and consider the overall evidence.