Ziconotide
Ziconotide is a pain reliever that is used to treat chronic, severe pain. Unlike many painkillers, this medication does not use narcotics, so people who are allergic to narcotics or have a history of narcotic drug abuse can use it. Ziconotide works by blocking pain impulses’ signals to the brain.
Warnings/Side Effects
Patients who have a history of mental illnesses, especially psychosis, should not use this medication. Ziconotide can cause hallucinations, cognitive impairments and mood swings.
This medication must be injected intrathecally by a doctor. It should not be injected intravenously or given any other way.
Contact your doctor immediately if you have any of these serious side effects:
- Stiff neck
- Seizures
- Disorientation
- Fever
- Hallucinations
- Suicidal thoughts
- Fainting
- Extreme sleepiness