Emerging Paradigms and Future Directions

EPF-03 - Emerging Analgesics and Topical Technology: Future Innovations

Friday, September 11, 2026

7:30 AM - 8:20 AM PDT

Co-Presenter(s)

Jeffrey Gudin, MD

Professor
Department of Anesthesiology, University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
Palm Beach Gardens, Florida
Jeffrey J. Bettinger, PharmD

Pain Management Clinical Pharmacist
Saratoga Hospital Medical Group
Saratoga Springs, New York
Robert B. Raffa, BChE, BS, MS, PhD

Professor Emeritus
(1) Temple Univ Sch Pharmacy (2) Univ AZ College Pharmacy (3) Neumentum (4) Enalare
Temple University
Tucson, Arizona

This session explores the future of pain management through emerging analgesics and advancements in topical technology. With the 2025 AAPM guidelines emphasizing a shift from systemic medications to safer, targeted therapies, attendees will learn how "precision delivery" and innovative formulations can optimize patient outcomes while reducing systemic side effects. This presentation highlights a "bench-to-bedside" approach, showcasing clinical strategies and cutting-edge technologies like AI and computer modeling in drug discovery. Participants will also address barriers to topical analgesic utilization, such as misconceptions about efficacy and reimbursement challenges, and discover collaborative solutions to drive innovation in pain care. This session provides actionable insights to shape the future of precision analgesic care.

Learning Objectives:

Discuss the 2025 AAPM guidelines and the shift from systemic medications to topical analgesics to mitigate toxicity risks.
Explore advancements in topical technology and "precision delivery" to optimize patient outcomes and reduce systemic side effects.
Address barriers to topical analgesic utilization, including misconceptions about efficacy and reimbursement hurdles, and develop strategies to overcome them.
Discuss innovative methodologies in analgesic drug discovery, including AI and computer modeling, to predict clinical success.
Recognize the value of collaborative efforts between clinicians and researchers in advancing precision analgesic care and driving future innovations in pain management.