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Light-activated experimental opioid eliminates dangerous side effects (opens in a new tab)

news-medical.net · 2026-10-15

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Claim 1 of 5Not checkedAn experimental opioid painkiller designed to be reversibly switched on and off with different light frequencies may eliminate the dangerous side effects of current opioids, according to a study led by Weill Cornell Medicine and University of Pennsylvania investigators.View evidenceHide evidence

As statedmay eliminate the dangerous side effects

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Claim 2 of 5Not checkedUsing this photopharmacology approach, they reported activating AM-3's painkilling effect only where needed, with substantial pain relief and without side effects in multiple preclinical pain models, including cancer pain models.View evidenceHide evidence

As statedsubstantial pain relief

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The source study was found, but this claim couldn't be checked against it.

Claim 3 of 5Not checkedThe researchers engineered a morphine-based compound called AM-3 that changes its shape in response to light, altering its engagement with the mu-opioid receptor.View evidenceHide evidence

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Claim 4 of 5Not checkedIn preclinical models including bone cancer pain and visceral pain, brief UV illumination of the injection site was reported to produce a morphine-like painkilling effect with reduced or no signs of tolerance, constipation, and other side effects.View evidenceHide evidence

As statedreduced or no signs of tolerance, constipation, and other side effects

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The source study was found, but this claim couldn't be checked against it.

Claim 5 of 5Not checkedThe authors said the approach still has a limitation because AM-3 requires ultraviolet light, which can damage eyes and skin, and they are working on successor molecules switchable with safe visible light frequencies such as red light.View evidenceHide evidence

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Open the paper in Tessa

An opioid efficacy switch for reversible optical control of analgesia

Cell · 2026

Source record (opens in a new tab)

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Papers considered

The selected paper, plus nearby candidates.

Crossref, PubMed, Europe PMC · 41 candidate papers

Candidate

Semi-synthetic products based on 7-hydroxymitragynine: a public health emergency

Medical Research Archives · 2026 · Crossref

Source (opens in a new tab)
Candidate

300. Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) alleviates neuropathic pain and insomnia through activation of the reticular thalamus

International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology · 2026 · Crossref

Source (opens in a new tab)

And 35 more candidates considered.