Lexicon Pharmaceuticals Releases White Paper on Chronic Pain Treatment
Publication of “Relief is Possible: Ensuring Access to Effective Treatments for Chronic Pain” emphasizes urgent need for alternatives to opioids.
Overview of the White Paper
On January 9, 2026, Lexicon Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (Nasdaq: LXRX) announced the release of a White Paper titled “Relief is Possible: Ensuring Access to Effective Treatments for Chronic Pain.” This document is based on the findings from a Roundtable held in October 2025, where diverse stakeholders convened in Washington, D.C. to address the pressing needs of individuals suffering from chronic pain.
The Chronic Pain Crisis
Chronic pain is a debilitating condition that affects approximately one in four American adults, making it one of the leading causes of disability. Each year, chronic pain contributes significantly to direct medical spending, disability claims, and lost productivity. The economic impact is staggering, costing the U.S. over $720 billion annually, including an estimated $190 billion in lost worker productivity.
- More than 20 million Americans experience high-impact chronic pain.
- Chronic pain severely disrupts daily activities and can make employment nearly impossible.
Challenges with Current Treatments
Historically, opioids have been the primary treatment option for severe chronic pain. This reliance on opioids has created a complex landscape, with patients and healthcare providers facing difficult choices between effective pain relief and the risks of addiction and overdose.
The recent introduction of the Relief of Chronic Pain Act in the U.S. Senate aims to address these concerns by ensuring Medicare coverage for specific non-opioid medications used to treat chronic pain. This legislation is designed to eliminate barriers that often impede timely access to essential care.
Call to Action from Lexicon Pharmaceuticals
“We are exploring partnerships to prioritize chronic pain on the legislative agenda and support new methods of pain relief,” said Mike Exton, Ph.D., CEO of Lexicon Pharmaceuticals. “The development of non-opioid treatments is critical, not just for patients, but for society as a whole.”
Addressing chronic pain requires a concerted effort from various stakeholders, including patients, caregivers, and clinicians. With more than 60 million Americans living with chronic pain, swift action to enhance access to safe, effective non-opioid therapies is imperative.
Widespread Impact of Chronic Pain
Chronic pain is a condition that does not discriminate; it affects individuals across all demographics and communities. A comprehensive response necessitates bipartisan collaboration that reflects the capabilities of America to innovate and enhance healthcare access.
About Lexicon Pharmaceuticals
Lexicon Pharmaceuticals is dedicated to pioneering transformative medicines aimed at improving patients' lives. Through its Genome5000™ program, Lexicon has identified over 100 protein targets with significant therapeutic potential across various diseases. The company actively develops innovative medicines, with a robust pipeline addressing conditions like heart failure, neuropathic pain, diabetes, and more.
For further information, visit www.lexpharma.com.