Sodium (Na+) Channel Inhibitors Market: Competitive Landscape, Pipeline, and Market Analysis 2023

Sodium channels are integral membrane proteins that form ion channels, conducting sodium ions (Na+) through a cell's membrane. They belong to the superfamily of cation channels. Sodium channels play a central role in physiology and they transmit depolarizing impulses rapidly throughout cells and cell networks, thereby enabling co-ordination of higher processes ranging from locomotion to cognition. There are two major classes of sodium channels: The voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) family and the epithelial sodium channel (ESC). The mechanism of action (MOA) of Na+ channel inhibitors is they act by inhibition of sodium influx through cell membranes. Blockade of sodium channels slows the rate and amplitude of initial rapid depolarization, reduces cell excitability, and reduces conduction velocity.

Na+ Channel Inhibitors are used to treat CNS disorders, mood disorders, postoperative pain, epilepsy, hypertension, hernia, appendicitis, atherosclerosis, colorectal neoplasm, and cognition disorders among others. Increased prevalence of cognitive and brain disorders and early diagnosis of neurological disorders are the key drivers for the Na+ Channel Inhibitor market. For instance, According to the World Health Organization 2023, around 50 million people worldwide have epilepsy, making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally, It is estimated that up to 70% of people living with epilepsy could live seizure-free if properly diagnosed and treated. The launch of newer products by the market players significantly enhances the revenue of the Na+ Channel Inhibitor market over the forecast years. For instance, Sanofi’s Multaq (Dronedarone) is used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular hospitalization in patients with paroxysmal or persistent atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. Moreover, the development of other molecules by market players are coming up with more treatment options. For instance, GSK’s GSK2339345 for refractory chronic cough are in the various stages of clinical studies.

Key Market Developments:

• In March 2018, Glenmark received a tentative NOD from FDA for a generic version of Sanofi’s Multaq (Dronedarone) for its Dronedarone tablet 400 mg.
• In October 2020, Innocoll declares launch of the Xaracoll (Bupivacaine Hcl) implant, a non-opioid, drug device treatment option for acute postsurgical pain relief up to 24 hours following open inguinal hernia repair in adults.

Approved Drug Molecules and Brand Names for Na+ Channel Inhibitors:

• Multaq (Dronedarone)
• Synera (Lidocaine 70 Mg/Tetracaine 70 Mg/Heated Topical Patch)
• Xaracoll (Bupivacaine)
• Hygroton (Chlortalidone)
• Lidocoll (Lidocaine Hcl)

Drugs under the Pipeline for Na+ Channel Inhibitors:

• Jnj-26489112
• Gsk2339345
• Flecainide/Modafinil (Thn102)
• Nerispirdine (Hp184)
• Noc-100
• Bn82451
• Amitriptyline Topical (Atx01)
• Valsartan/Amlodipine/Chlorthalidone (Aju-C52l)

Clinical Activity and Developments of Na+ Channel Inhibitors:

• Till June 2023, more than 15 companies having approximately 23 molecules targeting above 199 diseases. For these molecules, more than 349 clinical trials are being conducted and majority are in phase-2 and phase-3 clinical trials. For instance,
• In April 2023, Sanofi completed phase 3, a placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel arm trial to evaluate the efficacy of Dronedarone for the prevention of cardiovascular  hospitalization in patients with atrial fibrillation or atrial flutter. 
• In February 2023, Innocoll completed a phase 3, an open-label and pharmacokinetic safety study of Bupivacaine Hcl (INL-001) in adults of abdominal hysterectomy, laparoscopic assisted colectomy.