NIDA funds studies
The US National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) has funded a project investigating the drug candidate PN6047, a novel and highly selective Delta Opioid Receptor Agonist (DORA), represents a unique approach to addressing this medical challenge.
The persistent challenge of opioid addiction, involving substances such as heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone, remains a significant public health concern both in the United States and globally. A key obstacle in addressing this addiction crisis is the management of withdrawal symptoms. The symptoms include intensified pain, nausea, excessive sweating, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Often resembling a severe flu, these symptoms can be life-threatening, and the fear of experiencing these symptoms contributes to opioid users’ reluctance to stop taking their drug.
The interest of NIDA in PN6047, prompted by the drug's very positive effects on neuropathic pain, reflects the ongoing efforts of NIDA to find effective treatments for opioid withdrawal.
Comprehensive data from preclinical studies suggest that PN6047 has no abuse potential. This is further supported by Phase I clinical data, where no side effects indicating abuse potential have been observed. Ongoing studies in the NIDA project have also demonstrated the candidate’s effectiveness in pain relief during intensified pain due to opioid withdrawal and its potential to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Phase I study data of PN6047 have shown promising results regarding safety and tolerability, paving the way for additional studies of PN6047 in opioid withdrawal syndrome, with a potential for support from NIDA.
NIDA funds studies
The US National Institute of Drug Abuse (NIDA) has funded a project investigating the drug candidate PN6047, a novel and highly selective Delta Opioid Receptor Agonist (DORA), represents a unique approach to addressing this medical challenge.
The persistent challenge of opioid addiction, involving substances such as heroin, fentanyl, and oxycodone, remains a significant public health concern both in the United States and globally. A key obstacle in addressing this addiction crisis is the management of withdrawal symptoms. The symptoms include intensified pain, nausea, excessive sweating, and mental health issues like depression and anxiety. Often resembling a severe flu, these symptoms can be life-threatening, and the fear of experiencing these symptoms contributes to opioid users’ reluctance to stop taking their drug.
The interest of NIDA in PN6047, prompted by the drug's very positive effects on neuropathic pain, reflects the ongoing efforts of NIDA to find effective treatments for opioid withdrawal.
Comprehensive data from preclinical studies suggest that PN6047 has no abuse potential. This is further supported by Phase I clinical data, where no side effects indicating abuse potential have been observed. Ongoing studies in the NIDA project have also demonstrated the candidate’s effectiveness in pain relief during intensified pain due to opioid withdrawal and its potential to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Phase I study data of PN6047 have shown promising results regarding safety and tolerability, paving the way for additional studies of PN6047 in opioid withdrawal syndrome, with a potential for support from NIDA.
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Watch PharmNovo at LSX in Lisbon
Take the opportunity to listen to Per von Mentzer, CEO, presenting PN6047 at the LSX World Europe congress in Lisbon, March 2026. Learn how PharmNovo is shaping a new approach to pain relief with the goal to prove that powerful pain treatment doesn’t have to come with the cost of addiction. Discover how the company’s lead candidate PN6047, delivers effective pain relief without activating the mu-opioid receptor and avoiding the addiction risks associated with conventional opioids. The Phase II-ready Delta Opioid Receptor Agonist (DORA) with first-in-class potential, PN6047 represents a safer, non-addictive approach targeting a neuropathic pain market that is expected to double until 2033 and reach 13 bEUR.
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Capsules ready for Phase IIa Study
PharmNovo is pleased to announce that that the company has completed drug product manufacturing for its lead candidate PN6047. This is an important milestone as the company prepares for its upcoming Phase IIa proof-of-concept study in neuropathic pain.
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Welcome on Board
As the company prepares for the next phase of clinical development, the new Board composition strengthens our strategic capabilities ahead of Phase II development of our lead candidate, PN6047.
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