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The current issue of Science contains a report of a "molecular missile for chronic pain," by M.L. Nichols et al (U. Minnesota). A "smart bomb" drug targets a specific group of neurons, without affecting other nerves, without apparent side effects, without the dulling effects of narcotics, and without interfering with normal pain reactions.
The researchers found that a neurotransmitter called "substance P" is involved, and found a way to chemically attach a neurotoxin called saporin. Chronic pain in rats was completely relived within 45 days, and after 200 days had not returned.
What works in rodents does not always work in humans, but the new approach is extremely interesting. The Society for Neuroscience estimates that 100 million Americans experience chronic pain.