Pain & Its Killers: What a New Non-Opioid Medicine Could Mean for Society

Can a new painkiller bring relief to people without the risk of addiction? After two decades without innovation, a breakthrough moment arrived: Last year, the FDA approved Journavx™ (suzetrigine), the first new class of non-opioid pain medicine in more than 20 years. Early clinical trials show it delivers relief comparable to opioids without the addiction risk. For millions living with chronic pain and a nation still grappling with the opioid crisis, this isn't just medical news. It's hope. But beyond the science lies a bigger story. How did we get here? What does this mean for patients, doctors, policymakers, and families caught in the grip of America's deadliest drug epidemic? And most importantly, what happens next? Join this essential conversation to learn how history has shaped today's pain treatment landscape. We're bringing together three leading voices who bridge history, science, and society to unpack this landmark development: • David Herzberg Founding director of the Drugs, Health and Society program at the University at Buffalo (SUNY) and education director of the Clinical and Research Institute on Addictions • Lucas Richert Professor and George Urdang Chair in the History of Pharmacy at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, executive director of the American Institute of the History of Pharmacy, and Science History Institute Haas Fellow • Marla Broadfoot Renowned freelance science writer and editor, whose work has appeared in Scientific American, Smithsonian, Knowable, Science, STAT, Popular Science, Discover, Nature News, Science News, and other publications Whether you're personally affected by chronic pain, working in healthcare, or simply believe in evidence-based solutions to public health crises, this conversation matters. About This Event This panel is part of our Science and Society and Joseph Priestley Society (JPS) series. Our Science and Society speaker series explores the history of science embedded in our everyday lives. We invite scientists, historians, policymakers, and educators for engaging, in-depth conversations that expand our perspectives. Named for the 18th-century scientist who discovered oxygen, JPS promotes a deeper understanding of science, technology, and industry, with an emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship. Header image: Display samples of Lilly tablets, part of Hand Book of Pharmacy and Therapeutics, circa 1919.