Since 2008 PharmNovo has developed  novel molecules which are highly selective, potent and  effective in animal models of chronic pain. We have designed compounds with ligand bias which means that they have a very favourable activity profile with none of the unwanted effects characteristic of conventional opioids that act mainly through mu opioid receptors. Our compounds are agonists of the delta opioid receptor, activation of which is known to effectively combat chronic but not acute pain.

Studies with our candidate compound, PN6047, have revealed no unwanted behavioural, cardiovascular or gastrointestinal effects and recently we have demonstrated that PN6047 does not depress respiration which is a potentially fatal side effect of conventional opioids. We believe that PN6047 could contribute significantly in the worldwide battle against conventional opioid addiction and toxicity.