Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (VRTX) Launches JOURNAVX, First Non-Opioid Acute Pain Treatment

We recently compiled a list of 10 Most Undervalued Healthcare Stocks to Buy According to Analysts. Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated stands second on our list and has recently launched the first non opioid acute pain treatment.

Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:VRTX), a global biotech firm based in Boston, is known for developing innovative treatments for serious diseases like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, and beta thalassemia. The company is recognized for its strong pipeline targeting unmet medical needs.

In July 2025, Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:VRTX) launched JOURNAVX (suzetrigine), a first-in-class, non-opioid treatment for moderate-to-severe acute pain. JOURNAVX, an oral NaV1.8 pain signal inhibitor, was named a 2025 Breakthroughs Innovation Celebration winner by Premier, Inc. It represents the first new class of pain medicine in decades and offers a safer alternative to opioids by directly targeting pain pathways without addiction risks.

This launch marks a major advancement in pain management, aligning with public health efforts to reduce opioid use. JOURNAVX is especially relevant for acute pain scenarios such as post-surgical recovery and injury care.

A closeup of pills in a pharmacy, representing the high quality medications of the company.

Beyond acute pain, Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated (NASDAQ:VRTX) continues to expand its reach. Its next-gen cystic fibrosis therapy, ALYFTREK, received approval from the European Commission in July 2025, strengthening its global leadership in this area. The company is also advancing gene-editing therapies like CASGEVY for sickle cell and beta thalassemia, and is developing treatments for kidney disease, type 1 diabetes, and rare genetic disorders.

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Disclosure: None.