How does PRIALT work?
A pathway for pain signal1,2 The sensation of pain is transmitted to the brain when neurotransmitters (chemicals released from the nerve cells) pass from nerve cell to nerve cell through a small gap that exists between them. There are several pathways which may cause neurotransmitters to be released. In one pathway, neurotransmitters are released when calcium enters the cell through channels called N-type calcium channels. How PRIALT works3 Although the mode of action in humans is not fully understood, animal studies suggest that ziconotide, the active ingredient in PRIALT, binds to the N-type calcium channels and reduces the release of neurotransmitters. This may block pain signals from traveling from one nerve cell to another. 
What is PRIALT?
PRIALT is a prescription medicine that a doctor injects into your spinal fluid through a special device. It is used to treat severe chronic pain in adults who cannot take other treatments or when other treatments have not worked. Other treatments include systemic pain medicines, treatments used in combination with pain medicines, or morphine injected into the spinal fluid. Potential side effects
PRIALT may cause serious mental symptoms and neurological problems. You should not receive PRIALT if you have or had a mental condition called psychosis. Other serious side effects include unconsciousness or reduced mental alertness, meningitis or other infections, and muscle damage. References:
1. Wallace MS, Staats PS. Pain Medicine and Management: Just the Facts. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill Professional; 2004.
2. Swayne LA, Bourinet E. Voltage-gated calcium channels in chronic pain:emerging role of alternative splicing. Pflugers Archiv European Journal of Physiology 2008;456:459-466.
3. PRIALT® (ziconotide intrathecal infusion) Prescribing Information. South San Francisco, Calif: Elan Pharmaceuticals, Inc; 2008. Please see accompanying full prescribing information including boxed WARNING and important safety information for additional information.
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