What is it prescribed for?
JOURNAVX is prescribed for the treatment of moderate to severe short-term (acute) pain in adults. It was approved on January 30th 2025
What is the name of the drug and what does it do?
The brand name is JOURNAVX (pronounced “JOR-na-vix”), and the generic name is suzetrigine. JOURNAVX is used to relieve acute pain that ranges from moderate to severe, such as after surgery or injury. It is not meant for long-term use.
How does it work?
JOURNAVX blocks a specific type of sodium channel called NaV1.8, which is involved in sending pain signals through nerves. By blocking this channel, it helps prevent pain signals from reaching the brain, making the patient feel less pain.
What did the research discover?
In two major trials:
- Trial 1 (abdominoplasty patients):
- JOURNAVX significantly reduced pain scores over 48 hours compared to placebo.
- The time to meaningful pain relief was 119 minutes with JOURNAVX, compared to 480 minutes with placebo.
- It performed similarly to hydrocodone/acetaminophen (HB/APAP), a standard pain treatment.
- Trial 2 (bunionectomy patients):
- JOURNAVX again showed better pain control than placebo.
- The time to meaningful relief was 240 minutes with JOURNAVX versus 480 minutes for placebo.
In both trials, fewer patients on JOURNAVX discontinued due to lack of efficacy compared to placebo.
What are some of the side effects?
Common side effects (in more than 1% of patients):
- Itching (pruritus)
- Muscle spasms
- Elevated muscle enzyme levels (creatine phosphokinase)
- Rash
What are the dosage recommendations and how is it prescribed?
JOURNAVX is taken by mouth:
- Starting dose: 100 mg (2 tablets) on an empty stomach, at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after food.
- Maintenance dose: 50 mg every 12 hours starting 12 hours after the first dose, with or without food.
- Duration: Use only for short-term relief. Safety beyond 14 days has not been studied.
Special adjustments are required for patients with moderate liver impairment, and the drug should be avoided in those with severe liver impairment. Patients must avoid grapefruit products while on this medication.
Source:
Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated. JOURNAVX (suzetrigine) tablets. Prescribing Information. 2025. Available from:https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2025/219209Orig1s000lbl.pdf
