Vertex Pharmaceuticals Incorporated
Prodrugs of pyridone amides useful as modulators of sodium channels

Abstract:

The invention relates to prodrug compounds of formula I: ##STR00001## wherein R.sup.2, R.sup.3, R.sup.5, R.sup.7 and X are as defined herein. The invention also provides pharmaceutically acceptable compositions comprising the compounds of the invention and methods of using the compositions in the treatment of various disorders, including pain. The compounds of formula I possess advantageous solubility and physicochemical properties.