Healing & Recovery
Ziconotide
Synthetic version of a cone-snail ω-conotoxin; FDA-approved intrathecal analgesic with no addictive potential.
- Route
- Intrathecal only
Overview
Ziconotide (Prialt) is a synthetic form of the ω-conotoxin MVIIA from the marine cone snail Conus magus. FDA-approved in 2004 for severe chronic pain refractory to other therapies.
Mechanism of action
Selective, potent blockade of N-type voltage-gated calcium channels in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord, preventing pre-synaptic neurotransmitter release in nociceptive pathways.
Evidence base
Three pivotal trials established efficacy in cancer, AIDS-related and other refractory pain. No tolerance or dependence has been documented.
Typical dosing
Intrathecal infusion via implanted pump: start 0.5–1.2 mcg/day, titrate slowly to 6.0 mcg/day maximum. Open the dose calculator →
Safety & contraindications
Narrow therapeutic index — psychiatric adverse effects (confusion, hallucinations, suicidality), memory impairment and dizziness. Boxed warning for neuropsychiatric events. Contraindicated in patients with a history of psychosis.
Related peptides
Educational reference only. Nothing on this page is medical advice, a prescription, or an offer to sell. Discuss any peptide therapy with a qualified clinician who can evaluate your history and monitoring needs.