Benzothiophenes as Potent Analgesics Against Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain arises because of neuronal injury. Unlike inflammatory pain which can be managed by classical nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), neuropathic pain is difficult to treat. The classical NSAIDs work through inhibition of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX2) enzyme. However, COX2 inhibitors are insufficient to treat neuropathic pain. Hence, it becomes important to explore for novel molecules acting through cell surface molecules like ion channels, for the treatment of neuropathic pain. We investigated multiple bromobenzothiophene carboxamides for their efficacy against neuropathic pain. Interestingly, AS6 was found to be very effective in treating neuropathic pain through inhibition of Kv4.3 ion channel. AS6 also reduced the COX2 overexpression associated with neuropathic pain. These results, as well as results from our previous study, indicate that AS6 can be a potent antinociceptive agent against both inflammatory and neuropathic pain.