cligabalin

Cligabalin (HSK16149) is a small molecule ligand of the α2δ subunit of voltage-gated calcium channels, developed by Haisco Pharmaceutical Group. As a next-generation gabapentinoid, it is designed to treat neuropathic pain conditions with higher potency and a more favorable safety profile than pregabalin. Cligabalin binds with high affinity to the α2δ-1 and α2δ-2 subunits, modulating the release of excitatory neurotransmitters in the central nervous system. It received its first approval in China in 2024 for the treatment of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) and has also been approved for postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Clinical research is ongoing to evaluate its efficacy in other conditions characterized by neurogenic inflammation and hypersensitivity, such as neurogenic rosacea.

Brand names

Simeining

Other names

cligabalinum