AT-121

**AT-121** is a small molecule investigational drug and dual partial agonist at both the **mu opioid receptor** and the **nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide receptor** (NOP). It was developed to provide potent morphine-like pain relief (analgesia) in non-human primates at approximately 100 times lower dose than morphine, while avoiding typical opioid side effects such as respiratory depression, abuse liability, physical dependence, tolerance, and opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Its bifunctional receptor profile allows AT-121 to suppress the reinforcing effects of opioids (reducing addiction potential) and block abuse liability, showing promise for the treatment of both **pain** and **prescription opioid abuse**. Developed by Astraea Therapeutics and evaluated in collaboration with Wake Forest School of Medicine researchers, it has so far been tested in preclinical primate models and is still in preclinical development[1][2][3][5][7].