Nerve growth factor, a protein that affects how nerve fibers function, is present in high concentrations in such chronic pain conditions as osteoarthritis and prostatitis. So what happens when patients receive drugs that target growth factor?

450 patients with osteoarthritis were treated with tanezumab, an antibody to nerve growth factor, or placebo. In short, the antibody significantly reduced pain and improved function. To read the results, which are available free of charge on the internet, click here.

We are not aware of any such study for the treatment of prostatitis pain. However, given the success of tanezumab with osteoarthritis, the principle has been proved and perhaps this study has opened the door to a new approach to the treatment of pain from chronic prostatitis, also.