How Does Ziconotide Work?

Ziconotide is a non-opioid analgesic that is prescribed to treat chronic pain that is not relieved by alternate medications. Ziconotide prevents the transmission of pain through the spine by the blocking conduction of pain signals by the nerve cells (neurons).

Ziconotide blocks calcium channels on the surface of neurons and prevents the inflow of calcium ions into the neurons. Blocking calcium channels prevents the release of chemicals (neurotransmitters) that transmit pain signals. Ziconotide is not addictive, being a non-opioid analgesic.

Side effects of ziconotide may include:

• Abnormal gait
• Abnormal vision
• Anorexia (loss of appetite)
• Asthenia (lack of energy)
• Ataxia (difficulty with balance, coordination, and speech)
• Confusion
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Hypertonia (increased muscle tone)
• Memory impairment
• Nausea
• Somnolence (drowsiness)
• Vomiting
• Anxiety
• Aphasia (difficulty with words and communicating)
• Dysesthesia (abnormal sensation)
• Fever
• Hallucinations
• Nervousness
• Nystagmus (involuntary abnormal and repetitive eye movements)
• Paresthesia (prickling sensation)
• Vertigo
• Speech disorder

Information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible side effects, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. Check with your doctor or pharmacist to make sure these drugs do not cause any harm when you take them along with other medicines. Never stop taking your medication and never change your dose or frequency without consulting your doctor.

Generic and brand names of ziconotide include:

• ziconotide
• Prialt