A small molecule drug in development by Vertex Pharmaceuticals Inc has reduced pain in patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that can occur with the disease. A Phase 2 trial of VX-548 which inhibits NaV1.8, a voltage-gated sodium channel, showed a statistically significant reduction in a measure of pain, Vertex announced on 13 December 2023. Patients with diabetic peripheral neuropathy are often treated with anti-seizure drugs or antidepressants, according to the Mayo Clinic. Opioid analgesics can also be used as second or third-line agents.
