Novel targets of pain modulation in anaesthesia: preventing painful memories

Abstract

Issues of concern regarding the clinical utility of NK-1 antagonists such as CP96,345 include their inability to prevent transmission by other systems such as EAAs as well as possible non-specific side effects.14 For these reasons, it is difficult to speculate on the future role of such agents in the anaesthetist's pharmacopoeia. It is possible that clinically effective analgesia by antagonism of excitatory neurotransmitters will require the simultaneous blockade of NK, EAA and perhaps even other as yet undiscovered receptor systems. The ongoing research and development of novel agents such as SP antagonists may provide opportunities to further diversify a balanced anaesthetic/analgesic approach and as well to develop strategies which prevent the long term consequences of pain. © 1997 Canadian Anesthesiologists.