Millions of people can now anticipate a more comfortable travel experience, as the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a groundbreaking oral medication for motion sickness. The drug, named Nereus, is the first new treatment in over 40 years, marking a significant advancement in managing motion-induced nausea and vomiting.
Developed by Vanda Pharmaceuticals, Tradipitant functions as a neurokinin-1 (NK-1) receptor antagonist, targeting the vomiting reflex in the brain. According to Mihael Polymeropoulos, CEO of Vanda Pharmaceuticals, “For the first time in over 40 years, patients have access to a novel therapy grounded in modern neuropharmacology, offering effective prevention without the limitations of existing options.”
Addressing a Common Issue
Motion sickness affects approximately 30% of adults, often making travel a distressing experience. Traditional treatments, mainly antihistamines, have been in use for decades, but they frequently come with side effects such as drowsiness and varying effectiveness. Nereus offers a new approach by blocking the NK-1 receptor, which is involved in the vomiting response triggered by a neurotransmitter known as substance P. This mechanism helps reduce the frequency of motion-induced vomiting.
The FDA’s decision to approve Nereus came after a thorough review of data from three clinical trials, including two Phase III real-world studies conducted on participants aboard boats. In these trials, the medication demonstrated a significant reduction in vomiting episodes compared to a placebo.
Future Prospects and Safety Considerations
Despite initial concerns regarding the long-term safety of Tradipitant, both Vanda Pharmaceuticals and the FDA concluded that motion sickness is typically an acute condition. As a result, it is not intended for extended use. The drug is expected to be available in pharmacies within a few months.
Additionally, Vanda Pharmaceuticals plans to explore the potential of Nereus for treating other conditions, such as gastroparesis and nausea associated with weight-loss medications. The results of the trials were published in the journal Frontiers in Neurology, highlighting the ongoing commitment to advancing treatment options in this area.
The approval of Nereus represents a significant milestone in the field of motion sickness treatment and offers hope to those who struggle with this common ailment.